DARFUR, Sudan – The bombing of a refugee camp in western Darfur and the presence of government forces and militia in the Jebel Moun region are “worrying signs”, according to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, “that there will be continued hostility in the area.”

Although the camp was empty at the time several people were injured. Witnesses claim army planes were responsible for the bombing. The Sudanese army claims the offense was carried to clear out the Jem rebels whom they accuse of blocking aid deliveries to the area.

Between January 1st and January 24th, 23 fully loaded U.N. World Food Program trucks have been hijacked. Yesterday, Ban urged both sides to agree to a cease fire. UN humanitarian chief Sir John Holmes warns that the consequences for 20,000 civilians in the area could be disastrous, if the attacks continue.

Presently, only about 7,500 military personnel and 1,500 police officers are in Darfur. The UN and AU have authorized the deployment of 26,000 officers and troops.

Roughly 200,000 people have been killed and nearly 2.2 million displaced since the fighting began five years ago.

For more information please see:

BBC – Darfur Bombing is ‘Unacceptable’ – 20 February 2008

Yahoo News- UN chief urges cease-fire in Darfur – 20 February 2008