TRIPOLI, May 15 (Xinhua) -- A fire broke out at the Libyan prime minister's office compound amid violence following a controversial football match in Tarhuna, southeast of Tripoli, according to local media sources Thursday evening.
The violence erupted during a match between Al-Ittihad and Al-Suwaihli at Tarhuna Stadium. Witnesses said the unrest began after Al-Ittihad players protested the referee's decision not to award a penalty kick, prompting angry fans to storm the pitch and escalate tensions.
The situation quickly deteriorated as clashes spread inside the stadium. Reports said players were assaulted and a broadcasting vehicle belonging to Libya Sport TV, along with several security vehicles parked at the venue, were set on fire.
Members of the 444 Brigade intervened to restore order and used live ammunition to disperse the crowds, resulting in the death of one soldier and injuries to seven others during an exchange of gunfire, reported local media.
The unrest then spread to several areas in the capital, accompanied by reports of gunfire and heavy security presence. Some protesters set fire to parts of the prime minister's office in Tripoli, while security and military forces were deployed around government facilities and major roads to contain the situation.
Libyan authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the incidents, the reported fire or the identity of the arsonists. ■
