Libya: Gaddafi forces mount counter-offensive

Forces loyal to Col Gaddafi have mounted strong counter-offensives, as they try to retake opposition-controlled areas in Libya.

In the west, tanks have been in action against the rebel-held cities of Zawiya and Misrata.

In the east, government troops attacked the coastal towns of Bin Jawad and Ras Lanuf, recently captured by the rebels.

There were earlier reports of heavy gunfire in the capital, Tripoli.

The BBC's John Simpson, with cameraman Duncan Stone, reports from Ras Lanuf.