JEM rebels claim capturing 2 tanks after fighting in West Darfur

February 12, 2009 (LONDON) — The rebel Justice and Equality Movement said today it captured two tanks of the Sudanese army following fighting in West Darfur area of Jebal Marra, a military spokesperson said.

Yesterday the rebel group which negotiates with Khartoum a framework agreement before to begin peace deal accused the Sudan Armed Forces of preparing an assault against its troops but the government said no truce yet signed.

Some 3000 Sudanese army troops attacked Thursday a mobile JEM force in eastern Jebal Marra, as part of their attempts to contain rebels’ movements in Darfur since the attack on Khartoum last May.

The Sudanese army deployed troops massively in the war torn region and along the border with Chad to limit the mobility of JEM troops who said they intend to transfer the war from Darfur to other regions.

“The offensive was easily and summarily defeated, despite use of 2 Antanov planes, 2 Mig 29 fighters and 6 tanks, two captured, three destroyed and one escaped” said Ali Alwafi, the military spokesperson.

Alwafi further added they captured Col. Hamid Ahmed, the deputy commander of the assailing force.

Ahmed Hussein Adam from Doha where the rebel group negotiating with the government denounced the attack saying it demonstrates the lack of government seriousness for peace in Darfur.

However the rebels said determined in their efforts to reach a political solution for the conflict.

“JEM commanders salute the Emir of Qatar and assure him that heir support of the current Qatari Initiative will continue despite callous and childish behavior of the Khartoum government,” Alwafi said.

Talks between Sudanese government and JEM rebels seem blocked over the issue of JEM request to release the detained members including Abdel Aziz Abu Usher, brother of JEm leader who are detained after the raid on Khartoum.

(ST)