Heavy Clashes Reported near Libyan Dictator Gaddafi's Compound

People celebrate the capture in Tripoli of Muammar Gaddafi`s son and one-time heir apparent, Seif al-Islam, at the rebel-held town of Benghazi, Libya, early on 22 August 2011. Photo by BGNES

Reports of heavy clashes near Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi's compound in Tripoli have arrived as rebels have been said to be in control over most of the city.

Heavy gunfire is reportedly heard from the area surrounding one of Gaddafi's last remaining strongholds.

Tanks emerged from the complex, known as Bab al-Aziziya, early Monday, and began firing, according to rebel spokesman Mohammed Abdel-Rahman.

Gaddafi troops remain a threat to the rebels who advanced into the city Sunday, Abdel-Rahman has said, as cited by Fox News, adding that as long as the dictator's remains on the run the "danger is still there."

Rebels met little resistance as they moved through the capital city to the central Green Square, quickly filled by revellers.

Two of Gaddafi's sons, Seif al-Islam and Mohammed,  have already been captured by the rebel forces. Colonel Muammar Gaddafi's whereabouts remain unknown.