Condemning Death of Peacekeeper in Central African Republic, Secretary-General Calls for New Government to Ensure Perpetrators Face Justice

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

The Secretary-General condemns the killing of a peacekeeper from the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) on 17 April in the town of Rafai in Mbomou Prefecture.  The incident occurred when a MINUSCA patrol was dispatched to Rafai in response to an attack on the nearby village, Agoumar, by alleged elements of the Lord’s Resistance Army.  A Moroccan peacekeeper was shot by unknown assailants and succumbed to his wounds later in the afternoon.

The Secretary-General reiterates that attacks against those who are working towards peace and security in the Central African Republic are unacceptable.  He calls on the newly elected Government to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

The Secretary-General offers his sincere condolences to the family of the victim and to the Kingdom of Morocco.