UNITA attack on Benguela

Seven people were killed and six wounded during an attack by presumed UNITA rebels on the outskirts of the central coast city of Benguela, Angolan National Radio reported on Tuesday. The state broadcaster specified that the attack was launched on the Gama neighbourhood early Monday morning, and that fighting ended when local combat veterans intervened.

Neighbourhood official Pedro Capingala said the attackers caused panic among residents by first shelling houses and then looting their possessions. "People are still very stirred up. They are preparing to bury their loved ones", Capingala added. The report said that the situation was calm on Wednesday and that a Benguela provincial government commission was to have visited Gama to evaluate the damage and the needs of victims' families. UNITA had separately claimed an early Monday attack on the Catumbela air base, also on the outskirts of Benguela. In late December, the rebels attacked the city`s airport, damaging three aircraft and the terminal building, the report said.