Fireworks Injure Hundreds in Libya Religious Feast

Nearly 650 people were wounded during the night by exploding fireworks in the Libyan capital, where Muslims were celebrating the birth of the Prophet Mohammed, state media said Monday.

Lana news agency, quoting hospital officials in Tripoli, said more than 640 people were hurt, many of them suffering burns to the hands and eyes. It added that some revelers had fingers amputated.

Celebrations for the birth of the prophet began Sunday night and spilled into the early hours of Monday. As per tradition, Libyans mark the religious feast with fireworks.

There are always reports of injuries at such events but experts say tolls have been higher in recent years because of lax customs controls of particularly potent fireworks imported from Asian countries.