Chad fighting death toll rises
2009-05-08 20:11
Ndjamena - Two days of fighting in the east of Chad has claimed 247 lives, including 225 rebel combatants, the government's spokesman said Friday in what he called a provisional casualty toll.
Speaking at a press briefing, Communications Minister Mahamat Hissene added that 127 rebel vehicles had been captured, and 93 destroyed, during combat that erupted on Thursday and raged into Friday.
"Government forces regret the loss of 22 martyrs in its ranks, and 31 wounded," he said, adding that 10 government vehicles were "destroyed by the rebels" who were being pursued.
Hissene added that 212 rebels had been taken prisoner.