An armed group launched a surprise attack on Tamanhint airbase, northeast of the southern city of Sabha, on Thursday, and took over control before Dignity Operation armed groups, which control the airbase, managed to retake it again.

Sources said around 15 military vehicles attacked the main gate early in the day and took control after a brief exchange of fire with the fighters there. Later, the attackers were forced to retreat under heavy airstrikes by Dignity Operation and only then its ground fighters were able retake to the airbase.

The sources indicated that the attackers ordered residents around the airbase to stay at home for their safety before their pull-out to the town of Samnu.

Reports said one Dignity Operation fighter was killed and four others wounded in the attack.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but Dignity Operation accused Benghazi Defense Brigades of being behind it.

Other sources claimed that the attackers were from the Tabu tribe, which has engaged in tribal conflict with Awlad Sleiman tribe, whose most members are fighting alongside Dignity Operation.