It is currently allied to the United Front for Democratic Change rebel group and both were dedicated to overthrowing Erdimi's uncle, Chadian President Idriss Déby and his administration.

The 12,000 troops that make up the RFC were expected to disrupt the 2006 presidential elections, but they did not, and President Déby returned to power.

Mahamat Inee, RFC spokesperson, said, "We were attacked by two columns of government troops on 19 September, but we repelled them."

He confirmed news reports that French Mirage fighter jets stationed in Abeche made surveillance runs over the RFC's position.

Timane Edrimi warned that "all French citizens, military or civil, that fall into the hands of our combatants will be considered like mercenaries and treated accordingly.