SECRETARY-GENERAL DEEPLY CONCERNED BY REPORTS OF ARMS SHIPMENTS

INTO DARFUR, USE OF UN MARKINGS ON AIRCRAFT

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General views with deep concern the evidence that has been presented to members of the Security Council regarding the flying of arms and heavy weapons into Darfur, in violation of Security Council resolution 1591 (2005).

He is especially troubled by reports that private or national aircraft have been illegally provided with UN markings and used for military purposes.  If further substantiated, such actions would be in clear violation of international law and in contravention of the United Nations international status.

The Secretary-General will continue to work closely with the Security Council on this issue, and will expect full cooperation from the Government of the Sudan, other Governments and all other parties to provide prompt clarification.

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For information media • not an official record