Five Gaddafi generals ‘defect to rebel forces’

The group was the latest to defect as pressure grew on the country’s embattled leader, Muammar Gaddafi.

Yesterday South African President Jacob Zuma flew into Tripoli for talks with the regime as part of efforts to secure a diplomatic solution to the conflict which began in February.

It is believed he will discuss an immediate ceasefire with the Libyan government as well as efforts to deliver aid as the humanitarian crisis across large parts of the country worsens.

Nato forces have demanded Col Gaddafi steps aside and they are continuing to bomb key targets, mainly in the regime’s stronghold of Tripoli.