Residents in the Libyan capital say the embattled regime of Moammar Gaddafi is arming civilian supporters to set up checkpoints and quash dissent.

A popular uprising throughout the country has posed the biggest challenge Gaddafi has faced in his 42-year rule. He has maintained control in the capital by using violence on protesters, though rebels have seized control of about half of Libya's coastline.

Pro-Gaddafi forces opened fire Feb 25 on demonstrations after Muslims prayers, and Gaddafi told supporters he would "open the arms depot so all Libyans and tribes become armed,” The Washington Post reported.