Tripoli, Sep 24 (IANS): Seven people were killed within 24 hours from Tuesday morning to early Wednesday, according to security sources.

Two colonels from the Benghazi security forces, Wael al-Hamali and Younis al-Fasi, were among the victims, Xinhua reported. Hamali was shot by unidentified gunmen near a police station in al-Hadayiq region.

The other victims included police and security officers, a manager from a local company and an activist. So far, no individual or any group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Since August, most parts of Benghazi have fallen into the hands of Islamist militant groups, including Shura Council and Ansar al- Sharia, which was listed as an terrorist group by the US.

The eastern city, birthplace of the 2011 turmoil that led to the downfall of Libya's then leader Muammar Gaddafi, has witnessed a drastic escalation of violence since then. The city has been plagued by kidnappings, assassinations and terrorist attacks.

Earlier Thursday and Friday, a total of 14 people were killed, including rights activists, journalists, members of the security forces and civilians.