1600 French soldiers are now in Central African Republic to restore security in the country 0912132

1,600 French soldiers in Central African Republic

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Monday, December 9, 2013 10:41 AM

1,600 French soldiers are now in Central African Republic to restore the security in the country.

Around 1,600 French soldiers are now deployed in the Central African Republic for the Sangaris operation, the army confirmed on Sunday, December 8, 2013, adding that no fresh clashes had occurred since Thursday. General staff spokesman Colonel Gilles Jaron said the troops were on the ground, with most in the capital Bangui and a few units deployed elsewhere.

Outside of the capital Bangui, French army has deployed armoured vehicles near the city of Bossembele.

Two new helicopters Fennec of French Air Force were airlifted by Antonov transport aircraft from French military bases of Orange and Villacoublay.

Outside of the capital Bangui, French army has deployed armoured vehicles in the city of Bossembele. In the north, some troops perform reconnaisance missions near Bossangoa and entered in the city during the night of December 7, 2013.

The General Soriano, commander of the Sangaris operation, went to Bossangoa to evaluate the situation. He met local civilian authorities.

French helicopters Puma, Gazelle and Fennec flew low over Bangui while French soldiers patrolled the capital and Bossangoa, about 290 km to the north.

French fighter aircraft Rafale continue to fly over the cities of Bangui and Bossangoa to demonstrate the military power of the French forces.

Video French soldiers patrol in the street of Bangui (Copyright ECPAD)