 On 10 November 2006, rebels from the previously unknown Union of Democratic Forces for Unity seized Ouanda Djallé.They had started their offensive two weeks earlier at the capital of the Vakaga prefecture, Birao, where 50-60 rebels managed to chase away 60 government soldiers posted in the city.They then took nine vehicles, including two pick-ups mounted with 14.5 mm heavy machine guns that were left by the government troops and continued south towards Ouanda Djallé.