The Central African Republic has plunged into the bloodiest and most unstable crossroads of its short history. Militias called anti-balaka are exacting an unprecedented revenge against Muslims and the rebels known as Séléka, who overthrew the state more than a year ago and began to attack and kill non-Muslims. Tensions left thousands dead across the country, leading the United Nations to send thousands of peacekeepers and pushing Séléka to retreat, anti-balaka are accused of crimes worse than what prompted them to take up arms. Foreign forces cannot control the violence and aid groups say ethnic cleansing is underway as Muslims flee –east over the border.
