Liberian rebels declare ceasefire

[Nambe]

MONROVIA (Reuters)

The Liberian rebel group which has been battling forces loyal to President Charles Taylor in the capital for a week, has announced an immediate ceasefire, the third time they have done so since June 17.

Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) said in a statement on Friday frontline commanders had been instructed to cease fire, but ordered to mount "a potent defensive posture in defending its present forward positions".

The announcement came after a day of heavy fighting when mortar bombs rained down on the city centre, which is held by Taylor's forces, killing at least 14 and wounding scores more. ---

"This unilateral ceasefire is declared with due respect to the international community and humanitarian concern," the statement said, adding that LURD was prepared to receive peacekeepers and fully cooperate with them.

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