11.   On Friday, a few residents ventured into the streets to see what was happening, but for the most part the city was deserted.

12.   On Midsummer Eve, they desert their cities and join festivities in the countryside.

13.   But the city is largely deserted, with about one quarter of the population left, mostly men, correspondents reported.

14.   ECOMOG forces which had virtually deserted the city during the afternoon were back in place, notably at the main intersections.

15.   Kisangani itself appeared calm on Tuesday afternoon, although many residents -- in particular Libyan diamond dealers -- have deserted the city.

16.   The city was deserted Tuesday morning, with no cars and few pedestrians.

17.   The city was deserted Tuesday morning, with no cars and few pedestrians visible.

18.   The city was largely deserted although Sunday was the last day of three-day holiday weekend.