Mali: UN mission condemns ‘cowardly and heinous’ attack on compound

The United Nations in Mali condemned today’s deadly attack on its Gao area compound that injured nine peacekeepers, killed at least three civilians and injured seven others, calling it a “cowardly and heinous” act.

According to the UN, at around 11:30 a.m. this morning, a suicide vehicle exploded at the entrance to the UN Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) camp in Ansongo, in the Gao region, as it tried to enter. The attack injured nine peacekeepers from the contingent of Niger, two of them seriously. Medical evaluations are underway.

“I am shocked that valiant peacekeepers, as well as innocent civilians, were targeted in an attack once again,” Special Representative for Mali and head of MINUSMA, Mongi Hamdi, said.

“This attack will not deter MINUSMA in its mission to restore peace and security in Mali,” he pledged.

On behalf of the Mission, Mr. Hamdi extended his condolences to the bereaved families and to the people and Mali and wished a speedy recovery to the injured peacekeepers and civilians.