By HADEEL AL-SHALCHI
TARHOUNA, Libya (AP) — A Libyan rebel negotiator says tribal elders in a Moammar Gadhafi stronghold are trying to persuade loyalists there to lay down their arms.
Bani Walid is one of Gadhafi's remaining bastions and has been surrounded by thousands of rebels. They have been trying for several days to strike a deal for a peaceful surrender.

Rebel negotiator Abdullah Kanshil said Tuesday that the elders want assurances the rebels won't take revenge. He says the elders are also trying to persuade Gadhafi loyalists to lay down their arms.

Meanwhile, a large convoy of Gadhafi soldiers crossed the Libyan desert border into Niger and rolled into the frontier town of Agadez late Monday, raising speculation about who was on board.
A Gadhafi spokesman says the former Libyan leader is still in the country.