Tripoli, Jul 10 (IANS): At least 14 Libyan army soldiers were killed and 62 others injured in clashes between the Libyan national army and extremist groups in the eastern city of Benghazi, a medical source said.

The source in Benghazi's medical centre confirmed the casualties, adding that 23 of the wounded have been transferred to Al-Jala hospital in the city, according to Xinhua.

Violent clashes broke out between the Libyan national army and extremist groups on Wednesday in an attempt by the extremists to enter the army-controlled Al-Hijaz street.

Benghazi, Libya's second largest city, continuously witnesses similar clashes between the national army and extremist groups.

Libya, a North African oil-rich country, has been suffering a security vacuum ever since the fall of former leader Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011.

The country has been suffering escalating violence and clashes with many armed groups constantly fighting for dominance.