By Ted Townsend
Impunity Watch Reporter, Africa
The Sudanese government-backed attacks on local rebel groups in Darfur have displaced many people and resulted in an alarming number of missing children. A steady flow of Sudanese refugees has arrived in neighboring Chad since the February 8th attacks, called the “worst violence in the region in months.” They have joined the estimated 240,000 refugees already in Chad.
The attacks, carried out by local militia on horses, camels, and in trucks, were designed to eradicate Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) rebel forces from the towns of Abu Surouj, Sirba and Seleia. While the Sudanese government claims the militia acted independently, residents say the militia was mobilized by the Sudanese army. Between twelve and thirty-thousand residents left their homes, fleeing to Chad and towns along the border.
The raids killed an estimated 100 civilians, a number the Sudanese government disputes, claiming many killed were rebels in civilian clothing.
The United Nations Refugee Agency and similar agencies have struggled to assist the refugees, many of whom are “destitute and terrified.” Aid teams are attempting to help provide basic needs, such as food and medicine, but other concerns have developed. Many children, especially boys ages 12 to 18, have gone missing. An initial UNICEF assessment showed 800 children unaccounted for. While that figure may actually be lower, the missing children and care of orphan children has become a high priority.
As aid agencies try to bring assistance to the region, those who have been displaced wonder when they can return. In the border town of Kondobe, many residents who expected to return are now revising their plans and trying to build makeshift homes for themselves. Many can still “hear shooting day and night.” The Sudanese government has also begun bombing emptied refugee camps.
A joint United Nations and African Union peacekeeping force is attempting to bring stability to the war-torn country. However, it has faced significant setbacks which include “stonewalling” from the Sudanese government.
For more information, please see:
Allafrica.com – Sudan: Hundreds of Children Mission after Darfur Attack – 14 February 2008
NY Times.com – Attacks Pushing Darfur Refugees into Chad, – 11 February 2008
Reuters – Sudan bombs empty Darfur camp – rebels, – 18 February 2008
Reuters –Thousands of villagers flee after Darfur offensive, – 18 February 2008
