34 people killed during tribal clashes in South Darfur

March 22, 2009 (KHARTOUM) – Some 34 people were killing as result of fighting tribal in between Fallata and Habaniya tribes in South Darfur State, tribal leader said.

Jafar Ali Al-Gali, a representative of Al-Habaniya tribe told Al-Ray Amm daily newspaper that joint force from Al-Fallata and their ally Salamat attacked them at Afonna location killing 28 Habaniya and wounding 6 other.

He further said they killed 6 members from the assailant force which was heavily armed.

Al-Gali said the attack occurred when an armed group of his tribe was searching water sources in the area of Annadif.

He also said Habaniya traditional chief Yousif Al-Sammani ordered self restraint and they are waiting for government response about the attack.

The Habaniya and Fallata both are considered as government allies in its anti-insurgency war on the rebel groups.

The two tribes, which live nearby each other, have regular dispute over cattle theft and the area’s resources. Both tribes are herders.

By the end of last year over 100 people were killed following tribal fighting between the two groups and some 5,000 people were displaced.

(ST)