Death toll in militia attack on protesters in Libyan capital rises to 34 as tension remains

This image made from video shows a protester holding up spent ammunition in Tripoli, Libya after militiamen attacked peaceful protesters demanding the disbanding of the country's rampant armed groups on Friday, Nov. 15, 2013, killing tens of people as they opened fire on the march with heavy machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades. (AP Photo via AP video)

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Militiamen attacked peaceful protesters demanding the disbanding of the country's rampant armed groups, killing tens of people as they opened fire on the march with heavy machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades.

TRIPOLI, Libya — A health official in Libya says the death toll from a militia attack on protesters in the capital, Tripoli, has risen to 34.

The official said today that the attack Friday wounded 325 people.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to brief journalists.

Meanwhile, government-affiliated militias and armed residents have deployed around Tripoli to prevent further violence and to block other gunmen from entering the city. Mourners will begin burying the dead later Saturday as well.

The march Friday was the biggest show of public anger over the out-of-control militias in Libya. After the killing of longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011, Libya’s new leaders have struggled to take control of armed militias fighting over power and influence.