UN chief condemns killing of peacekeeper in Central African Republic

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned today the killing of a peacekeeper from the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

“The Secretary-General deplores in the strongest terms attacks against United Nations peacekeepers and calls for swift action to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice. He further calls on all armed groups to respect the impartiality of MINUSCA,” reads a statement issued by the UN Spokesperson during evening.

MINUSCA peacekeepers were attacked by an armed group during a search operation intended to arrest a suspected criminal in application of a judicial warrant from the Public Prosecutor of Bangui. One of them was killed and eight were injured. Three suspects were arrested during the operation.

Mr. Ban offered his condolences to the bereaved family and to the Government and people of Cameroon, wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.

“The Secretary-General reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to support the Central African authorities in their fight against criminality and putting an end to impunity, in line with MINUSCA's mandate and within its area of deployment,” adds the statement.