IDPs flee back to camps after new settlers open fire

Hundreds of displaced people have fled back to Neem camp in East Darfur after they were attacked by new settlers on their original lands, when they returned with state authorities as part of the programme of voluntary return. Witnesses said on Wednesday the old Neem camp residents were taken with authorities including the state governor to resettle on the land they were originally displaced from. On arrival they said militants started shooting heavily into the air and threatening to kill the returnees if they did not leave the area, even though senior government officials were present. The witnesses called for authorities to solve this problem and enable them to return to their native lands, as they hope to farm and cultivate before this coming season. They also ask for services and security to be provided.