El Fasher, 25 May 2009 – The African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) today condemned heavy fighting in and around a North Darfur town that has injured more than 50 people and forced hundreds of civilians to seek shelter around a UNAMID camp.

Sudanese Government forces clashed with armed elements of the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) for several hours yesterday in Umm Barru, a town located about 100 kilometres from the Chadian border in the far west of North Darfur state. Explosions were also reported in the area after Government planes flew overhead last night.

It is the second time in eight days that JEM armed elements have attacked a Sudanese military position in North Darfur. On 16 May, they attacked Government forces based near the town of Kornoi, located between Umm Baru and the Chadian border.

UNAMID peacekeepers based at a camp near Umm Baru report that at least 53 people have been seriously injured and need evacuation for further medical treatment. The casualties include civilians, Government soldiers and JEM members.

About 350 civilians – mainly women, children and the elderly – and 100 unarmed Sudanese soldiers and members of the Sudan Liberation Army/Minni Minnawi (SLA/MM), a pro-Government faction, are currently taking refuge near the UNAMID camp.

Urgent humanitarian aid, particularly food, water, medical supplies and tents, is needed to help civilians displaced by the fighting. Some of the wounded have already been treated by UNAMID, and Mission forces are on standby to evacuate those needing further medical care.

The situation on the ground today is reported to be calmer, and UNAMID peacekeepers are continuing to monitor the situation. There is no confirmation yet on the number of people killed.

North Darfur’s far west has also been the scene of deadly clashes this month between members of JEM and the SLA/MM.

Speaking on behalf of the Mission, Joint Special Representative Rodolphe Adada has condemned yesterday’s fighting, and reiterated his condemnation of all forms of violence. Mr. Adada urged all parties to the Darfur conflict to seek a peaceful resolution to their differences, using available mechanisms, including the Doha process, and he voiced particular concern at the humanitarian impact of the fighting on civilians.