While its peace talks with rebel forces continue in Machakos, Kenya, an offensive launched by the Sudanese government has displaced tens of thousands of civilians in the western Upper Nile region. Since signing an agreement with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army on July 20, the government has moved to secure strategic oil fields in the area, clearing out any civilians in the process. Among those affected by the military action are members of the Nuer tribe, who reported destruction of their villages, cattle theft and abduction of women and children by government-backed Arab militias. The government apparently seeks to convert the towns into secure border posts.
