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Violence in Monrovia

Violence in Monrovia

Violence erupted in the Monrovia, Liberia’s capital, Wednesday, threatening to destabilise UN peacekeeping efforts.

Insurgents and government forces clashed after rebel leader Sekou Conneh tried to enter the city.

Two civilians and a rebel were killed during the 20-minute gun battle, according to media reports. Government officials put the death toll at five.

An interim West African peacekeeping force moved into the capital on August 4.

Liberia is emerging from 14 years of repressive rule under former warlord and president Charles Taylor.

The battle came one day after the remaining US forces withdrew from the city.

Rebels used AK-47s and grenade launchers during the fight against government troops.

The UN peacekeeping force is set to grow 15,000 men by March of next year.