BRUSSELS , Nov. 3, 2008 -- Violent clashes in the north of the Democratic Republic of the Congo topped the monthly CrisisWatch report from the International Crisis Group.

CrisisWatch listed the surge in fighting in the DR Congo as one of six conflict situations that deteriorated in October. Despite a recent cease-fire that allowed the safe passage of humanitarian aid on Monday, clashes between the Congolese army and the rebel National Congress for People's Defense led by Laurent Nkunda has forced thousands of civilians to flee mass looting, rapes and killings, the International Crisis Group reported.

The report released by the independent non-governmental organization also cited violence in the northeastern Indian state of Assam . Thirteen explosions in Assam 's capital, Guwahati, killed more than 60 people. Officials say inter-communal violence in the region is the "worst in 25 years as clashes between Bodo tribes and Muslims killed over 50 (in October)," the release said.

CrisisWatch also listed the suicide bombings in Somalia 's semi-autonomous Somaliland region and the city of Bossaso , violence by the rebel Shining Path movement in Peru , deteriorating stability in Thailand and violent attacks in the Russian republic of Ingushetia in the North Caucasus .

Source: United Press International