Chadian rebels warn against French intervention

N'Djamena: Rebels in Chad warned France on Wednesday of intervening and offering military assistance to President Idriss Deby Itno's regime.

The warning came as French Defence Minister Herve Morin made an unannounced visit to Ndjamena.

In the aftermath of weekend violence in the capital, rebels have withdrawn "to better camouflage themselves" about 70 kilometres from Ndjamena, Abderaman

Koulamallah, a rebel spokesperson said.

"We warn France against all direct intervention; otherwise, things could very badly degenerate for it," said Koulamallah. "It would risk losing face in Chad and endanger the lives of all its nationals in Africa,'' he added.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy said on Tuesday that France along with 1,450 troops and Mirage fighter jets stationed in Chad was ready to "do its duty" and intervene if need be to preserve Derby's government.