C.Africa football boss held in France on war crimes charges

Touadera can only claim control over a fraction of the country. Most of the territory remains in the sway of militia groups and violence is entrenched.

In Bangui, the head of an anti-Balaka chief who had been among the first to accept enrolment in a post-conflict disarmament and reintegration programme, said Wednesday he feared the arrest could spark violence.

“This is too much,” he told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“We showed goodwill by laying down our weapons, but it’s twice now that a former anti-Balaka (leader) has been arrested. People are starting get upset, but we are appealing for calm while we await further information.”