Libya Boosts Security Ahead Of World Qualifier Against Congo On Friday

Police, army patrols and checkpoints "will beef up security" at Libya's first home int'l football match in more than two years on Friday after FIFA "lifted a ban despite violence still plaguing the North African state," according to Amara & Gumuchian of REUTERS. Libya "will play the Democratic Republic of Congo in a World Cup qualifier in the capital Tripoli." While life "has returned to normal since the chaos of the eight month uprising, security remains precarious in a country still awash with weapons left over from the conflict." Head of Tripoli security spokesperson Mohammed Abu Abdila said there would be "enough" security forces at the game but did not give a number. He said, "We have been preparing for the game and we have enough men from all the security forces -- police, army, emergency forces -- there. There will be scanners for weapons and guns" (REUTERS, 6/3).