6 Soldiers Reported Slain in Rebel Ambush
Rebels ambushed government troops on patrol in northwestern Burundi, leaving six soldiers dead and sparking heavy fighting, a rebel spokesman and a witness said.
Hutu rebels staged the ambush Wednesday morning in Gakindo, 20 miles north of Bujumbura, the capital, said rebel spokesman Lt. Gelase Ndabirade.
No rebels were killed in the ambush, Ndabirade said. Residents said several civilians were killed.
Army spokesman Col. Augustin Nzabampema confirmed the fighting but would not discuss casualties.
Burundi’s nine-year civil war pits minority Tutsis, who have long controlled the government, against majority Hutus.
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