EAC MEETS TO DISCUSS REBEL ADVANCE

C O N F I D E N T I A L NDJAMENA 001359 SIPDIS SIPDIS DS/IP/AF, DS/IP/ITA, DS/CC E.O. 12958: DECL: 11/13/2016 TAGS: ASEC SUBJECT: EAC MEETS TO DISCUSS REBEL ADVANCE REF: RSO SPOT REPORT DATED NOV. 25 2006 Classified By: RSO Brad Markwald, reason 1.4g ¶1. (C) On November 26, 2006, the N,djamena EAC reconvened at 1300 and later, 1900 to discuss the movements of the Chadian rebels moving west towards N,djamena. Those present were the Ambassador, DCM, DAO, RSO, CONS, POL, ECON, GSO, MGT, MO, POL/MIL. ¶2. (C) When the US Embassy EAC met 1300, the situation was unclear and rumors of the rebels reaching Ati (380 km from N,djamena) and beyond were numerous and unconfirmed. However, what was known was at least one large group consisting of 80-125 vehicles was headed west towards the capital. The whereabouts of the rebels that took Abeche and fled earlier today were not known. Local intel sources believe the three main groups of rebels in Chad are indeed working together and attempting to coordinate their advance into N,djamena. ¶3. (C) Given this information, the RSO recommended an 1800 curfew for official Americans and cease all non-emergency travel after dark. The EAC decided to wait for more information regarding the rebels movements and intentions before considering recommending authorized departure. ¶4. (C) The EAC reconvened at 1900 to assess the current situation. According to French sources, the main group of rebels heading to the capital from Biltine (SCUD) has been observed, stopped 100 km west of Biltine. The reason for their pause is unknown. ¶5. (C) Given this information the EAC decided that there was only a slim chance that a rebel group could make it to N,djamena before tomorrow morning. Other local sources believe Tuesday morning is now a more realistic timeframe for any sizeable group to reach the capital. The EAC decided to consolidate its personnel and dependants at the Embassy and housing compounds. In addition, the EAC concluded that there is a possibility the rebel columns could turn around as they did in October 2006 when the element of surprise was lost on their side and the Chadian Army reinforced the perimeter around N,djamena. Security in the city has been visible with T-55 tanks again guarding the Presidential Palace grounds. Troops have been ferrying all day outside N,djamena and have dug in positions 5 km form the capital. Heavy armor and personnel carriers are also in place outside the city. ¶6. (C) Local international organizations are drawing down non-essential personnel. The French Embassy has advised it citizens to be vigilant and stay indoors after dark. The have decided to keep their school open. The American international school has closed as a precaution. ¶7. EAC N,djamena concluded its last meeting at 1945 hours. It will reconvene in the morning to again assess the situation and consider additional steps as deemed necessary. WALL