1st LD Writethru: UN chief slams deadly terrorist attacks in Cameroon

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon on Thursday condemned the twin suicide bombings in Cameroon, which left at least 20 people dead, while encouraging Cameroon and other countries in the region to "further strengthen their cooperation in addressing the threat posed by Boko Haram."

"The secretary-general extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Cameroon and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured in the terrorist attacks," said a statement issued here by Ban's spokesman.

Ban also reiterated his support for the government of Cameroon and countries of the region and encouraged them to further strengthen their cooperation in addressing the threat posed by Boko Haram, as well as ensuring strict compliance with international humanitarian, human rights and refugee law.

The twin suicide bombings took place simultaneously at a large market and a residential neighborhood in the city of Maroua in north Cameroon Wednesday. Nigerian militant group Boko Haram were blamed for the terrorist attacks, reports said. Endite