Condemning Deadly Triple Suicide Attack in Chad, Secretary-General Reiterates Call for Countries Affected by Boko Haram to Address Root Causes of Violence

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

The Secretary-General condemns the triple suicide attack on the island of Koulfoua on the Chadian side of Lake Chad on 5 December 2015, which left more than 30 dead and many more injured.  These despicable acts demonstrate yet again the brutality of Boko Haram.

The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured.  He reiterates his call for the countries affected by Boko Haram to address the root causes of this scourge in a holistic and integrated manner.

The Secretary-General reaffirms his solidarity with the people of Chad and reiterates the United Nations’ support for the Government in its fight against terrorism, which must be conducted in full respect of international human rights, humanitarian and refugee law.