Elubo (W/R) Jan. 18 GNA -Calm has returned to the Noe border post in Cote d'Ivoire almost one week after rebels attacked the post and stole guns and ammunition.

The attack, which occurred on January 12 this year around 0200 hours, led to the closure of both the Noe and Elubo borders posts. As a result business activities came to a halt and many travellers including school children were stranded at both borders.

Briefing the media in an interview at Takoradi on Thursday, Mr. Barfour Dwomoh-Jermih, Elubo Sector Commander of the Customs Exercise and Preventive Service (CEPS) said the borders were closed to prevent any of the rebels from escaping to Ghana and also to safeguard lives and property.

He however, said both borders posts were opened on January 15 after joint meetings were held between security personnel from both countries.

He disclosed that the Ivorian security forces have arrested nine of the rebels; two of them died during the incident and security had been tightened.

Mr. Dwomoh-Jermih said due to the surprise attack by the rebels, the Ivorian security has erected 21 additional barriers between Noe and Abidjan to check and screen all persons.

Heavily armed Military and Police personnel of Cote d'Ivoire are manning these barriers he said. Business activities were gradually picking up after the borders were opened.

The rebels on January 12 reportedly attacked the Noe border post armoury and made away with 60 AK 47 assault rifles and other ammunitions.

They shot and killed a Policeman and a civilian worker at the post while a CEPS officer at the Noe border was shot in the leg and arm.