Members of a Libyan army unit in the eastern port of Benghazi reportedly told residents of the city Sunday evening that they deserted, liberated the city from forces loyal to dictator Muamar Ghadaffi and joined the public protest against Ghadaffi's rule. According to local hospitals, soldiers arrived for treatment, following clashes with Ghadaffi's personal security staff.
The action came after at least 50 people were killed and 100 others were seriously wounded in afternoon and evening clashes. An emergency-room doctor said most of the dead had been shot.