Around Ten Libyan fighters injured in conflict with the so-called Islamic State are expected to be flown to Malta shortly to receive treatment, Times of Malta has learnt.

The men, who were injured in western city of Sabratha, were flown by helicopter to Mitiga airport before being transported to Malta.

The Maltese government gave the go-ahead yesterday but the patients are still awaiting clearance from the Libyan authorities.

The victims will be treated at Mater Dei Hospital and at St James Capua hospital.

Islamic State militants briefly entered the centre of Sabratha on Wednesday, beheading 11 members of local security forces and killing another six in overnight clashes before retreating.

Islamist militants have taken advantage of political chaos and a lack of central authority to establish a presence in Libya, with fighters loyal to Islamic State seizing control in Sirte and staging attacks in several other cities.

During the uprising against Muammar Gaddafi, neighbouring Malta was sometimes also used to nurse rebels injured in fighting.