Armed Libyans arrested in southern Tunisia

TUNIS - Three Libyans driving a plate-less four-wheel drive vehicle were arrested near Tataouine in southern Tunisia early Tuesday as they attempted to enter the country illegally, the official press agency TAP reported on Wednesday, quoting a high level military source.

A car search enabled security forces to find two automatic assault rifles and 60 cartridges, TAP said. The group admitted entering Tunisia mistakenly. They were later placed under custody awaiting trial.

On Tuesday, seven Libyan nationals were also arrested after illegally crossing into Tunisia. The group later said they were heading towards the Algerian border.

Tunisian authorities have stepped up border control with its two neighbors in areas where arms and drug smuggling is becoming a major concern.