Secretary-General Condemns Attacks against Security Forces in Myanmar

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General condemns in the strongest terms the attacks carried out against the Myanmar security forces in northern areas of Rakhine state.  He extends his heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of all those killed and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured.  He hopes those responsible for this unacceptable violence will be swiftly brought to justice.

The Secretary-General has been closely following developments in Rakhine State and is concerned over the escalating tensions in the region.  He reiterates the importance of addressing the root causes of violence, in particular issues related to identity and citizenship, and reducing intercommunal tensions.  He strongly urges all the communities in Rakhine State to choose the path of peace.

The Secretary-General stresses that, while taking the necessary measures to curb attacks by criminal elements in the region, the security forces must protect civilians at all times, in line with international humanitarian and human rights law.