Sudanese army repels attack by rebels, blames Chad for devising it

KHARTOUM, May 24 (KUNA) -- The Sudanese army said here Sunday that it repelled an attack by rebels in the area of Sham Bro north of Darfur, blaming Chad for devising the attack on the army.
An army statement by the army condemned Chad for being behind the assault, affirming the army had dealt swiftly with rebels from the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM).
On its part, the UNAMID indicated that rebels used mortar shells and heavy artillery during the attack against the army.
The rebels blamed the government earlier for daily air-raids against their bases in Darfur, affirming that they would continue the fight the government.
Sudan and Chad had been exchanging blame on supporting rebels in both countries.
Chad said earlier this month that it had bombarded rebels in Sudanese soil.
Sudan accused Chad of supporting JEM rebels. (end) hhi.gta KUNA 242246 May 09NNNN