SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS IMMEDIATE, UNCONDITIONAL RESTORATION OF MOVEMENT FOR PEACEKEEPERS IN SIERRA LEONE ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL

Press Release
SG/SM/7444
AFR/244

SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS IMMEDIATE, UNCONDITIONAL RESTORATION OF MOVEMENT FOR PEACEKEEPERS IN SIERRA LEONE ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary- General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General remains extremely concerned about the encirclement and detention by the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) of 11 United Nations Mission In Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) military observers of various nationalities and 245 Indian peacekeepers in the areas of Kailahun and Pendembu in eastern Sierra Leone. It is absolutely essential that the RUF immediately and unconditionally restore the freedom of movement of the peacekeepers and allow them to join their UNAMSIL units.

The international community views the detention of United Nations peacekeepers as a serious crime, and the perpetrators would no doubt be held accountable for their actions. The Secretary-General calls upon regional leaders, in particular President Taylor, to do everything possible to seek the release of all peacekeepers held or surrounded by the RUF without any delay. There can be no discussion of any kind with the RUF about the future of the peace process as long as they hold United Nations peacekeepers by force.

The Secretary-General should also like to express his deep admiration of the professionalism and courage of the Indian contingent in UNAMSIL and, in particular, the leadership displayed by the Force Commander, Major General Jetley. They have shown commendable determination and patience in the face of a difficult and dangerous situation, which has now lasted well over a month. Their exemplary performance is a credit to the Indian Armed Forces and to their country.

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