32 killed, 18 wounded in Darfur militia attack – rebels

Nov 11, 2006 (KHARTOUM) — A Darfur rebel group today accused Janjaweed militia of killing 31 displaced and wounding 18 other in an attack on IDPs camps in West Darfur.

The National Redemption Front said around 300 Janjaweed on camels and horses backed by 18 military vehicles attacked the IDPs camps of Sirba, about 47 k north of al-Geneina, capyal of West Darfur state killing 31 and injuring 18 displaced including women and children.

The rebel statement further said that the Jajaweed and the Sudanese army burnt down 98 houses and looted 500 heads of cattle.

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour warned on Friday 10 November that unless the Sudanese Government curbs and disarms militias in West Darfur there could be more attacks like those around the Jebel Moon area that left over 50 civilians dead and thousands displaced late last month.

The High Commissioner reported that over the past month, West Darfur has witnessed increased movements and consolidation of armed militias, especially in the northern and south-western part of the state. At the same time, there are increased reports of the distribution of weapons to these groups in Geneina and outlying areas.

(ST)