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| Sunday, 27 February 2005 |
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Dozens of Nepal rebels killed in clashes KATHMANDU (Reuters) - Nepali soldiers killed dozens of Maoist rebels in a series of clashes, the army said on Saturday, in the latest battles since King Gyanendra's Feb. 1 power grab. At least three soldiers and a policeman were also killed in the clashes on Thursday and Friday in Kailali district, a Maoist stronghold 650 km (410 miles) west of Kathmandu. An army officer told Reuters four rebel bodies were recovered, but more than three dozen guerrillas were believed to have been killed in those battles. "Stains of blood were seen in nearby jungles. Dead rebels might have been carried away after the clashes," he said. The Maoists normally carry away most of their dead and bury them in the jungle or in river beds to hide their losses. The army estimates of rebel losses are based on the version of villagers who saw the guerrillas carrying their fallen comrades. The Maoists have not commented and independent verification of the army claims is not possible because the clashes occurred in remote areas. The latest fighting took place as soldiers went to clear road blocks set up by the rebels to enforce a transport blockade in protest at the king's move, which has also triggered worldwide condemnation and a halt in military aid from Britain and India. The two-week-old blockade has disrupted supplies and travel. More than 11,000 people have died in the nine-year Maoist revolt which has crippled the aid and tourism dependent economy and forced thousands to flee. King Gyanendra has justified his power grab saying it was required to crush the Maoists, who want to topple monarchy and set up a communist republic in the nation. |
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