TRIPOLI, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Libyan government forces on Sunday clashed and expelled armed smuggling groups from the western city of Sabratha, according to security sources.
"Sabratha witnessed clashes between the anti-Islamic State operations chamber and general intelligence forces (of the government) against militias of the military council, who were expelled from the city in October last year," a security official told Xinhua who requested anonymity.
The official said the clashes erupted in southern Sabratha when the militias attempted to enter and take over the city.
Another security source told Xinhua that the government forces took control of the city after hours of fighting, killing four militia fighters, injuring dozens, and capturing many others.
The municipal council of Sabratha confirmed that the city is under control, and schools will reopen on Tuesday.
In October 2017, the anti-Islamic State operations chamber of the Government of National Accord announced taking over Sabratha and defeating rival militias accusing of smuggling migrants.
Sabratha, located some 70 km west of the capital Tripoli, is considered a hotspot for migrants smuggling to Europe, according to international reports.
