More Than 1,000 Inmates Escape From Libyan Prison Near Benghazi

"There was a riot inside Al-Kuifiya prison, as well as an attack from outside," one security official said to AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity. "More then 1,000 prisoners escaped. Special forces called in as reinforcements were given orders not to fire at the prisoners."

From AP:

It wasn't immediately clear if the jailbreak was part of the protests or if inmates received outside help.

A security official from the prison confirmed the jailbreak happened. He said most of the inmates were being held on serious charges. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to speak with journalists.

Benghazi's security situation is among the most precarious in post-revolution Libya. Last year, the U.S. ambassador and three other Americans were killed in an attack there.

The breakout is reminiscent of what happened earlier this week in Iraq, with 500 convicts — including senior members of al Qaeda — being released after outsiders attacked their prison and freed them.