Indians safe in Libya, avoid non-essential travel: External Affairs Ministry

New Delhi, Feb 20(ANI): India on Sunday said that its nationals in Libya were safe, and urged people to avoid non-essential travel to the country.

At least 200 people have been killed in four days of anti-government protests in Libya.

"All Indians numbering around 18,000 are safe in Libya. We are following the situation closely. Presently disturbances have mainly been reported in north-eastern cities of Benghazi, Derna, Baida and Tubruk," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Vishnu Prakash said.

"In view of the prevailing situation in Libya, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Libya, for the present," he added.

Prakash also informed that the Indian Embassy in Tripoli has set up a round the clock control room which can be contacted for further information or assistance.

The contact numbers are: +218 213 409 288, + 218 213 409 289 and + 218 213 409 284. (ANI)