Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abidjan (Fides Service )- “Unfortunately the episode came as no surprise” a local Church source told Fides with reference to the shooting incident this morning December 12 outside the national television studios in Abidjan, capital of Ivory Coast. Press sources say a group of armed men tried to enter the television building and a shooting battle occurred when security guards reacted. At least twelve people are reported dead. “Despite the optimism of recent days as the peace process makes progress there is an underlying sense of tension which can lead to violence” the local source told Fides.
“At the moment Abidjan is presided by the army which has set up several road blocks” the source told Fides. “We hope the incident will not affect the collection of heavy weapons and dismantling of road blocks in the border area between the rebel controlled zones and those under government control which should start tomorrow ”. These measures are the results of a long meeting on December 10 in Bouake, at the rebel headquarters, between the army chief and rebel leaders. The parties hope to conclude this stage by Christmas Day. (L.M.) (Fides Service 12/12/2003, lines 21 words 230)
