Seleka rebels attack villages, kill dozens in Central African Republic

Elements of the Seleka rebel alliance have attacked a number of villages in the central part of the Central African Republic (CAR), killing dozens of people.

On Tuesday, over 12 people were killed by the rebels in and around the town of Bouca situated some 300 kilometers (240 miles) north of the capital Bangui, DPA reported.

“They [Seleka rebels] arrived in three vehicles full of weapons and ammunition and attacked the village,” said a merchant who spoke on condition of anonymity.

On May 27, a Red Cross worker said that the rebels have killed at least 25 people, including a pregnant woman and a child, in attacks on different villages near the city of Bossangoa.

The Seleka rebels launched an offensive against the CAR government in December 2012 and have since been accused of killing the civilians and looting.

On January 11, former CAR President Francois Bozizé and representatives of the Seleka rebels signed an agreement in Libreville, Gabon, after three days of negotiations brokered by regional neighbors.

However, Seleka rebels led by Michel Djotodia captured Bangui. Djotodia, immediately proclaimed himself president after seizing power from Bozizé on March 24.

There are many mineral resources, including gold and diamonds, in the Central African Republic. However, the country is extremely poor and has faced a series of rebellions and coups since it gained independence in 1960.