Condemning Lethal Attack on Peacekeepers, Secretary-General Stresses Full Support for Mali Authorities' Fight against Extremist Groups

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

The Secretary-General condemns the deadly attack that took place today in the Mopti region in Mali against a convoy of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).

According to preliminary reports, five peacekeepers from Togo were killed when a MINUSMA convoy travelling on the Tenenkou-Sévaré axis was ambushed by unknown assailants some 30 kilometres west of Sévaré, Mopti region.

The Secretary-General presents his heartfelt condolences to the families of the five peacekeepers who have died in the cause of peace and to the Government and people of Togo.  He calls for swift action to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice.

He observes with sadness that this latest attack on MINUSMA has taken place on the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, when the men and women serving under the United Nations flag with honour, courage and dedication are to be honoured.  The Secretary-General recalls, once again, that attacks targeting peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law.

The Secretary-General reiterates that the United Nations will continue to support the stabilization of Mali and the implementation of the peace agreement and expresses his full support to the Malian authorities in their fight against extremist groups.