SECRETARY-GENERAL DEPLORES RECENT NORTH DARFUR BOMBINGS TARGETING CIVILIANS,

CALLS ON PARTIES TO COMMIT TO POLITICAL PROCESS

 

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

The Secretary-General is deeply troubled by the recent bombings of civilian locations in North Darfur.  In particular, the bombing of a school, water installations and a market in the villages of Um Sidir, Ein Bassar and Shegeg Karo are entirely unacceptable.  The United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur, UNAMID, has assisted in the evacuation of casualties following the attacks.  The Secretary-General strongly deplores these acts, which targeted civilian areas, including locations where children congregate.

The Secretary-General is also concerned about increasing acts of banditry which complicate humanitarian operations and impede UNAMID’s ability to carry out its mandate.  The Secretary-General reiterates his call for all parties to urgently cease hostilities, ensure the protection of civilians and to work with UNAMID to promote security and commit to the political process being led by the Special Envoys of the United Nations and African Union.

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For information media • not an official record