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Security Council proposes panel to look into violations of Somalia arms embargo

Security Council proposes panel to look into violations of Somalia arms embargo

UN Security Council in session
Looking to strengthen the arms embargo against Somalia, the United Nations Security Council today recommended the establishment of an expert panel to gather information on violations of the decade-old prohibitions.

Acting unanimously, the Council adopted a resolution asking Secretary-General Kofi Annan to set up the three-person panel within one month and base it in Nairobi, where it will operate for a period of six months.

In seeking information on the arms embargo, the group would pursue all relevant sources, including States, international law enforcement bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), financial institutions and the business community.

In 1992, the Council enacted the embargo on Somalia, prohibiting financing of all acquisitions and deliveries of weapons and military equipment, as well as the direct or indirect supply of technical advice, financial and other assistance, and training related to military activities.

By today's action, the Council also instructed the panel to carry out field research in Somalia and other States, including through a review of national customs and border control regimes, and to recommend measures to strengthen the weapons ban. The team should also have sufficient expertise in armament and its financing, civil aviation, maritime transport and regional affairs.

The Council requested that individuals, entities and States contacted by the panel furnish all available information on arms violations, and that countries should assist with visits to sites and actors, and provide full access to government officials and records.

The panel is expected to submit a final report at the end of its mandated period for the Council's consideration.