2 shot dead in disputed area in N. Lebanon

BEIRUT, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Two men were shot dead in a disputed area in northern Lebanon, the Lebanese Army announced in a statement on Sunday, confirming earlier media reports.

The two young men, Haitham Tawk and Malek Tok, were found shot dead in Qornet al-Sawda, a disputed area between Bcharre and Bkaasafrine in northern Lebanon, the state-run National News Agency reported on Saturday evening.

Seven other civilians were also wounded in the conflict, the L'Orient Today news website quoted locals in Bcharre as saying.

Security tension, commonly seen in this area, is often caused by conflicts between the residents over land and water dispute, according to local media.

Lebanese Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said he was monitoring the situation.

"We condemn this incident and those responsible will be arrested, so that justice can be done," Mikati said in a statement issued by his press office.