300 die in failed assault by Sudanese rebels

EL-GENEINA, Sudan - Chad's Army said it had killed about 300 rebels after they launched a failed offensive on a border town in one of the worst attacks in an escalating conflict.

Chad's Foreign Minister said the troops then chased the rebels into Sudan and destroyed their bases across the border.

Scores of Chadian soldiers deserted their barracks in September before regrouping near the border to stage attacks against the Government. Chad has accused Sudan of aiding them.

"In its flight, the enemy abandoned about 300 bodies and more than 100 injured," the Army said, adding that five soldiers and three civilians were also killed.

- REUTERS