Heavy clashes broke out between warring groups in the western city of Zawia on Friday, local sources have reported.

The sources said Khadrawi armed group exchanged heavy fire with its rival Hanish armed group in downtown and other parts of the city leaving some people dead  and others wounded.

Tanks and armoured vehicles could be seen in the city's main square while many streets were closed. The city's main hospital and shops were also closed due to the heavy gunfire.

The reason of the clashes remained unclear, but another local source indicated  it was a power struggle.