Rebels Advance to Chad's Capital City

[Jacaylbaro]

Chadian rebels seeking to overthrow President Idriss Deby battled their way into the capital N'Djamena on Saturday and fought government troops around the presidential palace, diplomats and residents said

 

 

The sound of machine gun and heavy weapons fire could be heard in the capital as foreign embassies advised their citizens to stay in doors and take cover. Fighting was reported to be taking place around the presidential palace and the parliament.

 

"I can confirm they (the rebels) are in the city," a foreign diplomat told Reuters. The situation was confused and mobile phone networks were not working.

 

"Rebels are headed for the palace and are about two blocks from here. The rebels are winning," one foreign resident said in an email sent from the compound of a western embassy in N'Djamena, adding she could hear tank and mortar fire.

 

Rebels in pickup trucks mounted with machine guns had closed in on the capital of the central African oil producer in their most determined offensive in two years. They had fought confused battles with Deby's troops on Friday northeast of the city.

 

The French and U.S. embassies had started grouping their nationals for evacuation. But after the rebels entered the city, the French mission suspended the operation and told its citizens to stay at home, under cover, and keep away from windows.

 

French President Nicolas Sarkozy's office said he had discussed the situation with Deby. France reinforced its military contingent in its former colony on Friday.

 

"The battle for N'Djamena has started," a Chadian opposition Web site said on Saturday, adding that civilians were fleeing the capital southwards towards the border with Cameroon

 

 

Reuters

[Fabregas]

The rebels must have support and arms from sum1....

[AfricaOwn]

In need of Ethiopian intervention? Those terrorist...Don't worry our friendly neighbor Ethiopia is to the rescue.