Rebels moving closer to Gadhafi bastion

TRIPOLI, Libya (AP) ? Rebel fighters have started closing in on one of Moammar Gadhafi's last strongholds, the town of Bani Walid, without encountering resistance.

Despite Saturday's push forward, rebel officials say they're still trying to persuade tribal elders in Bani Walid to surrender without a fight.

Associated Press reporters traveling with the rebels approaching from the north advanced to within six miles of the town, which sits between Tripoli and Gadhafi's hometown of Sirte.

A local rebel official, Abdel-Baset Naama, says rebels also moved closer to the town from the west. Naama says forces from various area towns are gathering along the approaches to Bani Walid.

Gadhafi is on the run, and some officials have speculated he is in Bani Walid.

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