Deploring attacks in Niger, Security Council says perpetrators must be brought to justice

The Security Council today condemned “in the strongest terms” the two terrorist attacks that occurred on Thursday in Niger, and underlined the need to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The suicide bombings, which were condemned yesterday by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, took place at a barracks in Agadez and a French-run uranium mine in Arlit. At least 20 people were reportedly killed, and several were injured, in the attacks, for which a jihadist group known as Mujao has claimed responsibility.

“The members of the Security Council expressed their deep sympathy and sincere condolences to the families of the victims of these heinous acts,” said a statement issued to the press by the 15-member body.

Council members underlined the need to bring the perpetrators of these acts to justice, and urged all States to cooperate actively with the Nigerien authorities in this regard.

“The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” the statement added.