Sudan Rebels Claim Capture of Libyan

Sudanese rebels said Monday that they captured a Libyan fighter pilot who was forced down while flying for the Sudanese government.

Sudan has solicited Libya’s backing against the rebels, known as the Sudan People’s Liberation Army, who are based in southern Sudan.

SPLA radio, monitored in Nairobi, said technical troubles Sunday forced the Libyan, identified as a second lieutenant, to land his Soviet-made MIG-23 fighter in rebel-controlled territory. He was captured by civilians and turned over to the insurgents, it said.