Chadian Refugees Swamp Neighbouring Nations

(06 Feb 08 - RV) France's defence minister arrived in Chad's capital today in a strong show of support for
the former colony's embattled government.


After obtaining U.N. Security Council backing for President Idriss Deby's government, French President Nicolas Sarkozy said his country could intervene if called upon against the rebels


French warplanes have been flying reconnaissance missions over rebel positions and have spotted a rebel force of between 100 and 200 vehicles east of the capital.


Meanwhile, aid officials in Cameroon say they are struggling to help about 20,000 Chadian refugees who have fled the fighting. More than 3,000 other refugees have fled to Nigeria.


Amongst those attempting to help is the United Nations Refugee Agency – UNHCR.


Spokesperson Elene Caux told us more about their efforts to assist those affected by the violence: