Chad denies participation in Darfur rebels attack

Oct 13, 2006 (N’DJAMENA ) — Chad has categorically denied any participation of its troops in the fighting between the Sudanese army and Darfur National Redemption Front last week.

In a statement to Radio France Internationale from N’djamena, Chadian Government Spokesman Hourmadji Moussa Doumgor denied Chdaian army participation in last week attack by the NRF against the Sudanese army in the areas of Kari Yari and Um Sidir in North Darfur.

The Chadian official said Sudanese soldiers fell back to Chadian territory and on that occasion received assistance from Chad.

The fighting took place on Sudanese territory. Thereafter, elements from the Sudanese army withdrew to Chad. There were 103 troops, including some officers.

“All we did was gather those who were on our territory. We did not participate in the fighting in any way.” Doumgor said.

He further added “Apart from that, we have said it was a matter between Sudanese rebels and the Sudanese army, therefore, I do not see why today they say we took part in the fighting”.

The Chadian official said his government has no interest to attack Sudan.

“In what interest would Chadian army officers take responsibility for attacking Sudan? We already have internal problems. We know the Darfur crisis causes after-effects in Chad and it would be madness to go and attack the Sudanese army on Sudanese territory”.

(ST)