Central African Republic: Civilians Flock to French Troops for Safety
Thousands of Christian civilians sought refuge at an airport guarded by
French soldiers on Friday, fearing retaliatory attacks by former rebels
of a mostly Muslim alliance. Citing figures from local Red Cross
officials, national radio announced that at least 280 people had been
killed after Christian militias attacked the capital, Bangui, on
Thursday. About 1,000 French troops were expected to be on the ground by
Friday evening, France
said. The State Department said it was “deeply concerned” by the
violence and praised France’s quick intervention to protect civilians in
the country, a former French colony. The rebel alliance seized power in
March, but clashes with Christian militias and other fighters loyal to
the ousted president, François Bozizé, have continued.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/07/world/africa/central-african-republic-civilians-flock-to-french-troops-for-safety.html?_r=0
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/07/world/africa/central-african-republic-civilians-flock-to-french-troops-for-safety.html?_r=0
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