Sudanese officials say they are readying trials against suspects accused of rape and murder in the western Darfur region.

Authorities say the trials may include government officials and security forces in the troubled area.

Sudan's Justice Minister, Ali Mohamed Osman Yassin, told Reuters news agency Monday that 15 police and security agents have been detained for alleged abuses.

He vowed to continue an investigation into human rights violations and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

The United States and other countries have been pressing Sudan's government to end violence in Darfur and punish those responsible.

The U.N. Security Council this week is to consider a French proposal to send Darfur suspects to the International Criminal Court.

Sudan's foreign minister, Mustapha Osman Ismail, says his country would refuse the measure, if passed.