Mali: Ban voices concern over series of targeted attacks against UN mission
According to the UN, seven peacekeepers were wounded on 23 April in Mali's north-eastern Kidal region when a MINUSMA vehicle struck an explosive device. The incident was preceded by two separate attacks – on 17 and 20 April – involving unidentified armed men killing the drivers of MINUSMA-contracted trucks outside the city of Gao.
And, on 15 April, a suicide vehicle detonated at the entrance to the MINUSMA camp in the town of Ansongo injuring nine peacekeepers.
“Attacks against civilians and UN peacekeepers constitute a serious violation of international law,” said the Secretary-General's statement, which also added Ban's appeal that those responsible for the attacks be brought to justice.
“This series of attacks highlights the urgency of finding a political settlement and re-establishing security in the north of Mali,” it added.
In the statement, the Secretary-General also expressed his “deepest condolences” to the families of the deceased and the Government of Mali while wishing a speedy recovery to those who have been injured.
In addition, Ban expressed his “profound gratitude” to the brave peacekeepers serving in Mali's war-torn region and to the troop-contributing countries.
Photo: MINUSMA/Marco Dormino
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