SLM-Minnawi denies targeting Darfur civilians
March 22, 2013 (KHARTOUM) -The Sudan Liberation Movement – Minni Minnawi (SLM-MM) denied killing four civilians from the Rizeigat tribal group following a series of clashes in South Darfur between the two sides.
The Sudan Social Development Organization UK (SUDO UK) said that the rebel fighters on 15 March attacked a Rizeigat settlement in Belieil, 35 km from Nyala the capital of South Darfur state and killed four civilians in cold blood.
SUDO added that the attack took place following recent attacks by the Sudanese army on the SLM-MM positions involving some Rizeigat militiamen.
In a statement extended to Sudan Tribune, the rebel group dismissed SUDO-UK claims saying their fighters were busy with the fight against the Sudanese army on the day where the alleged attack occurred.
The rebel group reiterated its commitment to the humanitarian international and human rights laws adding that its combatants are committed in letter and spirit to its provisions.
The SLM-MM went further said SUDO relied, for its information, on a suspicious source based in the Ugandan capital Kampala and known for its links with the Sudanese government circles.
On the other hand, SUDO released on 22 March a separate statement denouncing the arbitrary detention of Darfurian students in Nyala and Khartoum by the security services.
(ST)