Libyans have marked the third anniversary of the start of a revolution that toppled long-time dictator Muammar Gaddafi.


Although no official ceremonies were organized, people across the North African country poured into streets on Monday to celebrate the turning point in their history.

In the capital Tripoli, crowds of people gathered in Martyrs Square, cheering and waving revolutionary flags.

Security was tight as police patrolled the area in and around the square.

In a televised speech to the nation late Sunday, Prime Minister Ali Zeidan said the revolution had achieved the goals of "ending tyranny and securing freedom of expression."

"The February 17 Revolution is a challenge that Libyans must live up to," he said, acknowledging the "difficulties" ahead.

Libyans rose up against Gaddafi’s four-decade rule in February 2011 and deposed him in August 2011.

The deposed Libyan ruler died of injuries sustained during his capture on October 20, 2011, by the former National Transitional Council (NTC) fighters in the city of Sirte -- his hometown.

Since Gaddafi’s fall, Libya has remained in a chaotic state, with its fragile government and armed forces unable to impose their authority on rival political factions and the brigades of former rebels who refuse to disarm.