A Muslim group spokesman, Ousmane Abakar, said yesterday that Muslims attacked a Christian neighborhood after the dead body of a Muslim man was left near a mosque late Friday.
Residents said today a Christian militia group retaliated. Three hospitals have reported at least 36 dead and 80 wounded.
The workers who gave the tolls spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak to the press.
Mahamat Kamoun, prime minister of a transitional government until October elections, said a curfew will be imposed.