On the way, the marines encountered a number of sharp battles and small, ill-organized attacks, mostly by militias loyal to the Iraqi president, Saddam Hussein.

The attack happened after a militia loyal to the National Transitional Council arrested armed pro-Gaddafi fighters.

A loyal militia, able in an emergency to occupy key points and hold them until Earth can act, that should deter any treason.

The simultaneous appearance of militias loyal to secessionist leaders only hastened the descent into chaos.

For nearly 10 years, Congo has been mired in turmoil as militias loyal to various politicians and outside interests battled over the country's vast mineral fortunes.

Rodney was elected the first president of Delaware and was responsible for keeping the militia loyal and efficient.

But militia loyal to General Dostum had seized control in four districts throughout the province, they said.

Shortly following, gunmen from a militia loyal to Farole entered the parliament building, and two militiamen and a civilian were reportedly killed nearby.

The interim government had tried unsuccessfully to separate the factions, by using loyal militia and neutral mujaheddin groups.

"But if this situation keeps up, we will all become volunteer fedayeen," referring to Mr. Hussein's most loyal militia.