show details 8:48 AM (35 minutes ago)
Stratfor logo

Libya: Rebels Control Zawiya Oil Refinery

August 18, 2011
Libyan rebel fighters gained control of the oil refinery in Zawiya, employees at the complex said Aug. 18, The New York Times reported. The employees said Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi’s soldiers were driven out of the refinery overnight. A rebel commander said 5,000 rebel fighters were deployed around the refinery. Rebel sentries could be seen on a drive around the complex. The rebels have liberated the whole city except for two main streets, a rebel commander said, AP reported. The commander said Gadhafi’s troops still controlled Gamal Abdel Nasser Street and were hiding in the hospital there. Omar Mokhtar Street is still controlled by Gadhafi’s troops and a few troops were patrolling in eastern Zawiya, the commander added.