UN Secretary-General condemns attacks on UNAMID peacekeepers

1 Dec 2008

UN Secretary-General condemns attacks on UNAMID peacekeepers

23 May 2008 -- On 21 May, four UNAMID peacekeepers were ambushed by a group of 60 men armed with semi-automatic weapons on the outskirts of El Geneina. The UNAMID personnel were not hurt, but their effects and weapons were forcefully stolen. The Secretary-General strongly condemns the attack and urges once again all parties to cease military action and commit themselves to negotiations and a peaceful solution.

The Secretary-General is also deeply saddened by the tragic deaths in a traffic accident on 21 May in Nigeria of 45 Nigerian peacekeepers who had served with UNAMID. The Secretary-General sends his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Government of Nigeria and commends the outstanding contribution of the Government of Nigeria to peace efforts on the African continent and beyond.

(Statement Attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General)