Cargo ports in Libya closed due to escalating violence

Protests in Libya continue

Libyan cargo port operations have shut down due to increasing violence sweeping the country, Reuters has reported.

Operations at Tripoli, Benggazi and Misurata Mediterranean ports, which handle general cargo and container shipping, have closed.  

John Bader, director of UK agents for Italian shipping line Tarros Spa told Reuters that they would not be sending ships into the region until the situation has eased.

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi has refused to step down from his 41-year rule amid growing protests.

According to reports, military forces have cracked down fiercely on anti-government protests. Fighting has now spread to the country's capital in Tripoli.