Gaddafi 'hiding in Libyan desert', rebels believe

Forces opposing Muammar Gaddafi believe he is hiding in Libya’s southern desert, possibly in a vast area near the Algerian border.

A revolutionary command spokesman said the fugitive leader is under the protection of the ethnic Tuareg group.

He said: “We do believe that he is somewhere in that region and we do know that Tuaregs are supporting him, probably because he’s paying them.”

One report suggested Gaddafi was south-west of Sabha or in the Ghadamis area. Pro-Gaddafi forces recently staged an attack in the town of Ghadamis.

Revolutionary forces have control over much of Libya but Gaddafi’s whereabouts remain unknown.

His supporters are still fighting on three fronts.