Libya: Demonstrators gather in Tripoli and Zawiyah to denounce living conditions on August 22 /update 1

Event

Demonstrators denouncing poor living conditions gathered for a third consecutive night in several locations in Tripoli and Zawiyah on Saturday, August 22, and continued protesting into the early hours of Sunday, August 23. Local sources indicate that protesters gathered in the Hay Andalous and Gorji areas of Tripoli, burning tires which resulted in temporary road closures. The demonstrations in Zawiyah took place at Martyrs Square and in the Omar al Mokhtar area. Reports suggest that the demonstrations in Zawiyah have been larger and more organized than those in Tripoli. Security forces have intervened to disperse those involved; on Friday, August 21, at least one activist was injured after police dispersed those gathered using live fire. No injuries or clashes were reported during Saturday's protests.

Further protests are likely to continue in the coming days. A heightened security presence with associated localized disruptions should be anticipated in the vicinity of gatherings.

Advice

Those in Libya are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.