Condemning Killing of Peacekeeper in Central African Republic, Secretary-General Warns Attack Could Be War Crime

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

The Secretary-General condemns the killing of a Mauritanian peacekeeper and the wounding of three others of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), on 4 December by anti-Balaka in Bria in eastern Central African Republic.

The attack occurred at a checkpoint staffed by MINUSCA peacekeepers near an internally displaced persons site in the town.  This brings to 14 the number of peacekeepers killed in targeted attacks in the Central African Republic since January.

The Secretary-General offers his deepest condolences and sympathy to the family of the victim and to the Government of Mauritania.  He wishes a swift recovery to the injured.

The Secretary-General recalls that attacks against United Nations peacekeepers may constitute a war crime.  He urges the Central African Republic authorities to swiftly investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Secretary-General reiterates the determination of MINUSCA to protect civilians and contribute to the stabilization of the Central African Republic.  He urges all parties to cease violence and work together to bring peace and stability to the country.