Nearly 400 die in Africa in militia attacks.
Deaths have occurred in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic, over the past three days, following attacks by militias against civilians; even with the presence of French troops, the atmosphere remains tense; the country has been plunged into chaos since the coup d'état in March.
Carolina Gonçalves
Reporter from Agência Brasil
*With information from Lusa
Brasilia – Nearly 400 people have died in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic, in the last three days, when militia attacks against civilians began. The toll was released today (8) by the French Foreign Minister, Laurent Fabius, who added that tranquility is being restored in the region.
Fabius admitted that there are still instances of violence and abuse of authority in some parts of Bangui, but reported that French army operations are ongoing and that disarmament actions should begin soon.
Central African Red Cross officials announced yesterday (7) that the death toll had reached 300. Even with the presence of French troops in the city, the situation remained tense on Saturday. The attacks began shortly after the United Nations authorized French military intervention in the region to protect the population and restore local order. Members of Christian self-defense militias "Anti-Balaka", who support the deposed president François Bozizé, carried out attacks and were fought by security forces who continue to be supported by the Muslim militia Séléka.
The Central African Republic, with 4,5 million inhabitants, has been plunged into chaos since the coup d'état in March, led by the rebel coalition Séléka.