Anti-Gaddafi fighters found stiff resistance from loyalists in Bani Walid. After advancing 500 meters from the center of town, forces were warned to pull back so NATO could carry out air strikes on Gaddafi loyalists.
Artillery explosions echoed across the valley on the town's outskirts and a rocket fired from Gaddafi loyalists. Plumes of smoke could be seen rising from Bani Walid. One fixed wing aircraft overhead appeared to be an aerial drone.
Twisted metal and wrecked vehicles littered the ground near Bani Walid.
Fighters still face fierce resistance in Sirte and Sabha.
Deborah Gembara, Reuters.