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UN chief concerned about increasing attacks on peacekeepers in Darfur

Xinhua, April 28, 2015 Adjust font size:

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was deeply concerned about the recent increase in attacks on peacekeepers serving in the African Union United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID), according to a statement released here Monday.

The secretary general condemned the two successive attacks by unidentified armed groups that occurred in Kass, southern Darfur, on April 23 and 24. Six peacekeepers were wounded and four attackers killed when UNAMID troops returned fire in self-defense, according to a statement attributable to the spokesman of the secretary general.

Ban urged the government of Sudan to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice and take all necessary action to avoid further attacks on or threats against peacekeepers in Darfur. UNAMID has launched its own investigation into the incidents, according to the statement.

Ban was also concerned about the limited cooperation provided by the Government of Sudan in addressing these incidents.

According to the statement, on April 26, the Sudan government denied a flight request for the emergency medical evacuation of an Ethiopian peacekeeper injured while forming his duties in Mujkar in western Darfur. The peacekeeper died hours later.

The secretary general sent his condolences to the government of Ethiopia and to the family of the deceased. He called on the government of Sudan to respect the Status of Forces Agreement signed with the United Nations and lift all restrictions placed on the Mission, it said. Endite