UN Security Council condemns deadly attack on peacekeepers in CAR
New York, US (PANA) - The UN Security Council condemned the attack on 11 February against the United Nations peacekeepers in the Central African Republic (CAR), which resulted in the death of a peacekeeper from the mission.
The peacekeepers of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA)were attacked while on patrol to protect civilians near the village of Zobassinda on the Ndele-Akursoubak axis, in the Bamingui-Bangoran prefecture, northeast of the capital Bangui.
Following this attack, a Tunisian peacekeeper was killed.
In a statement to the press, issued on Thursday, the members of the Council expressed their deepest condolences to the family of the slain peacekeeper, as well as to Tunisia. They also presented their condolences to the United Nations.
The Council recalled that attacks against peacekeepers constitute war crimes under international humanitarian law.
He called on the Government of the Central African Republic (CAR) to promptly investigate this attack, with the support of MINUSCA, and to ensure that such acts do not go unpunished, by bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The Council also called on the authorities in Bangui to keep Tunisia informed of progress made in the investigation, in accordance with its resolutions 2518 (2020) and 2589 (2021).
He stressed that anyone involved in planning, directing, sponsoring or conducting attacks against MINUSCA peacekeepers is likely to be subject to sanctions.
The members of the Security Council expressed particular concern at reports of illicit transnational trafficking networks, which continue to finance and supply armed groups in the Central African Republic.
They stressed the need to investigate and combat this threat.
While reiterating its full support for MINUSCA, the Council expressed its gratitude to the countries contributing troops and police personnel to the mission.
He further stressed the importance of equipping MINUSCA with the necessary capacities to fulfil its mandate and promote the security of UN peacekeepers.
The members of the Security Council reiterated their support for the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic, Valentine Rugwabiza, and for MINUSCA in assisting the Government and people of the Central African Republic in their efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability.
-0- PANA MA 15Feb2025
