The Special Deterrence Force and a brigade from Tajoura district on Wednesday engaged in a heavy exchange of fire in Al-Shat Road, just few meters away from Mitiga Airport.

Local residents live close to the airport said the clashes started at around 1.30 pm local time and continued until 2.00 pm between the Special Deterrence Force and an armed brigade known as Zimrina Brigade. The cause of the clashes is not yet known.

The clashes forced Mitiga Airport officials to cancel the flights for the safety of the passengers, but they resumed them later after the end of the clashes.

No casualties from both sides were reported.

Eyewitnesses said fighters of both warring groups are still on high alert in anticipation of any surprise attack.