The Rahanwein Resistance Army, RRA, has imposed tough restrictions on international aid agencies operating in Bay and Bakool regions.

In a directive it issued the day before yesterday [14 December], the RRA said every flight bringing in relief items at Baydhabo airport was required to pay over 100 dollars each.

Some relief aircraft yesterday avoided landing at airports controlled by the faction, whilst others complied with the directive and paid landing fees.

Reports availed to us by sources close to international relief agencies said that they had been also ordered not to employ people without the approval of the RRA.

Most relief agencies operating in the two regions are those of the UN.