Libya threatens to bomb oil tanker flying N. Korean flag trying to leave Libyan-controlled port

Libya's prime minister has threatened to bomb a North Korean-flagged tanker if it tries to export oil from a rebel-controlled port.

Ali Zeidan said that orders had been issued to arrest the tanker's crew.

Earlier separatist militants said they had started loading oil on to the tanker at Sidra port, east of Tripoli.

The rebels have seized three major ports since August, to demand more autonomy, hampering the government's ability to revive oil exports.

'First shipment'
The Morning Glory docked at Sidra port earlier on Saturday, after a failed attempt to dock on Tuesday.

A local TV station showed footage of the rebels holding a ceremony to celebrate.

"We started exporting oil. This is our first shipment," a rebel spokesman said.

Libyan officials said the rebel move was an "act of piracy".

Analysts have said it is unlikely the ship is owned or controlled by Pyongyang.