Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the death of a MINUSCA peacekeeper in the Central African Republic

The Secretary-General condemns the killing of a peacekeeper from the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) on 17 April in the town of Rafai in Mbomou prefecture. The incident occurred when a MINUSCA patrol was dispatched to Rafai in response to an attack on the nearby village, Agoumar, by alleged elements of the Lord's Resistance Army. A Moroccan peacekeeper was shot by unknown assailants and succumbed to his wounds later in the afternoon.

The Secretary-General reiterates that attacks against those who are working towards peace and security in the Central African Republic are unacceptable. He calls on the newly-elected Government to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. The Secretary-General offers his sincere condolences to the family of the victim and to the Kingdom of Morocco. New York, 18 April 2016