Sudan probes attack on Chadian village

Oct 1, 2005 (KHARTOUM) — The Sudanese government announced Saturday that it was investigating reports indicating that armed men had carried out an assault on a Chadian village from Sudan late last week, said Foreign ministry under secretary Mutref Siddeiq.

The Chadian president accused the Sudan backed Arab militia of attacking Madayouna village -Ouaddai region of eastern Chad – at the border with Sudan.

A Chadian officer said that 55 village herdsmen were killed in the assault on Monday September 26, along with 17 attackers and three Chadian troops, raising the previous overall toll of 56 dead.

Siddeiq told reporters that the government soundly refuses such an attack, denying Sudanese support for any party on borders or in the unstable western province of Darfur.

“We do not attempt to shake the security and settlement of those who aid us. We aid who helps us,” said the Sudanese official.

“There are disputes inside Darfur rebels groups and conflicts among their wings, as some aid-caravans are being targeted by Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM),” Siddeiq stated.

He also said that the rebel SLM had “carried out operations” trying to provoke the government and targeted civilians, in attempts to “create a complicated condition in Darfur.” Khartoum, he added, is practicing self-restraint, whereas flagrant violations are taking place.

“The government, however, is working to maintain security and settlement based on its authority and legitimate conventions, that grant Khartoum the right to response and defend citizens, the displaced, and refugees,” said Siddeiq.

(KUNA/ST)