Libya says has shot down 2 rebel helicopters

The Libyan government has announced it has shot down two U.S.-built attack helicopters being used by rebel forces in the east of the country.

Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Kaim told reporters in the early hours of the morning Sunday that two Chinook helicopters being used by rebels were downed over the disputed oil city of Brega.

The report could not be confirmed with the rebels, but journalists in the area did describe seeing at least one attack helicopter apparently fighting for the rebels in the area Saturday.

Most aircraft used by the Libyans, whether government or rebel forces, are Russian made. The 2008 Directory of World Air Forces said Libya had 20 of the twin rotor helicopters.

Mr. Kaim condemned the U.N. for not applying the no-fly zone to rebel forces.