Security Council strongly condemns Boko Haram attacks in Nigeria, Cameroon

The United Nations Security Council today condemned in the strongest terms the continued escalation of attacks perpetrated by Boko Haram terrorists, pointing to an attack on 1 February in Borno State, Nigeria and to increasing attacks in the Lake Chad Basin region, including, on 29 and 30 January, against Chadian forces deployed in Cameroon near the town of Fotokol, which killed four Chadian soldiers and injured 12 others.

In a statement issued to the press in New York, the 15 members extended their condolences and sympathies to the families of those killed and injured, and to the peoples and the Governments of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Chad.

Recalling their Presidential Statement of 19 January this year (S/PRST/2015/4), Council members reiterated their deep concern that the activities of Boko Haram are undermining the peace and stability of the West and Central African region. They urged the region to enhance regional military operations and coordination to more effectively and immediately combat Boko Haram. In that regard, they commended the Chadian army's swift assistance in Cameroon, which resulted in neutralisation of 123 Boko Haram combatants and the capture of others.

Members of the 15-State body reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the actions of Boko Haram, 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 whosoever committed.

Reiterating their determination to combat all forms of terrorism, in accordance with its responsibilities under the Charter of the United Nations, members underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of acts of terrorism to justice. They also urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate with the relevant authorities in that regard.

The Council also reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.