Central African Republic Border Clashes Displace Families as Humanitarian Needs Grow
AFRICA
Fighting near Am-Dafock in the Central African Republic's northeastern Vakaga prefecture has displaced civilians to the regional capital of Birao after armed fighters from the Alliance for Patriotic Renewal (ASP) attacked government forces on June 30. Residents described fleeing gunfire, burning homes, and widespread panic as clashes erupted in the strategic border area adjoining Sudan. Authorities have since reinforced security in Birao with support from the United Nations peacekeeping mission, while regional officials say government forces continue to deploy along border communities.
The newly displaced have joined nearly 22,000 Sudanese refugees already sheltering in and around Birao after fleeing Sudan's ongoing conflict. Families arriving from Am-Dafock reported shortages of shelter, food, clean water, sanitation facilities, medical care, and other essential services, with many living in temporary structures made from tarps and salvaged materials. The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) described the humanitarian situation as worrying and called for urgent assistance while emphasizing that a lasting return to security is necessary for civilians to safely return home.
No official casualty figures have been released following the Am-Dafock clashes. The Central African Republic's Special Criminal Court announced it would conduct a preliminary assessment to determine whether to open an investigation into the attack. Regional Governor Thierry Evariste Binguinendji, following a visit to Am-Dafock, said the town is now secure despite extensive damage, while displaced residents continue to await humanitarian assistance before considering a return.t
Image: un.dk