El Fasher, 30 January 2009: The African Union – United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) has received disturbing allegations that white Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), similar to those used by UNAMID peacekeeping forces, have been used by armed movements in recent fighting.

UNAMID stresses that it has not lost any APCs while carrying out its mandate in Darfur, nor has it observed any party using white APCs similar to its own.

UNAMID also denies other allegations that it has transported armed military officers or combatants on its helicopters from one point to another in Darfur. UNAMID flights are for the sole purpose of carrying out its mandate and no flight is conducted before the necessary clearances are obtained from the appropriate parties.

UNAMID refutes such rumors which not only jeopardize the safety of UN personnel but also compromise the Mission’s efforts to provide protection for civilians and necessary humanitarian assistance to the population.

UNAMID further recalls the recent positive statements made by all parties involved in the conflict over the neutrality with which the Mission conducts its operations.
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