UN staffer killed in crossfire in Russian republic of Ingushetia

A local staff member for the United Nations was killed last night during fighting between rebels and government forces in the Russian republic of Ingushetia, prompting the UN to review security arrangements for staff working in the northern Caucasus region.

Magomed Getagazov died after he was hit by crossfire while on his way home from work in the Ingush capital, Nazran, UN spokesman Fred Eckhard told reporters today in New York.

Mr. Eckhard said that, as well as conducting the security review, the UN has also cancelled new missions to the northern Caucasus this week. All other UN staff working in Ingushetia are safe.

Mr. Getagazov, who had worked for the UN since May 2002, was mourned by those who knew him as a much-valued colleague.

Remembering Mr. Getagazov as "always positive and helpful," the UN Resident Coordinator in the Russian Federation, Stefan Vassilev, said the late local staffer "will be deeply missed by his colleagues and friends from the humanitarian community."