Central African Republic: Civilians Flock to French Troops for Safety
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Version 0 of 1. 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. |