Gaddafi's PM Al Baghdadi al-Mahmoudi goes on trial in Libya

Muammar Gaddafi's former Prime Minister has gone on trial charged with corruption and ordering mass rapes during the war that toppled the Libyan dictator.

Al Baghdadi al-Mahmoudi, who faces life in jail or execution if convicted, served as Prime Minister from 2006 until he fled to neighbouring Tunisia in August last year as rebel fighters took Tripoli.

The country's new leaders have been keen to try top figures from the Gaddafi era inside Libya as a matter of national pride. Mr Mahmoudi was extradited by Tunisia in June.

The judge adjourned the hearing to 10 December to give lawyers from both sides more time to review documents.

REUTERS