The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), Valentine Rugwabiza, strongly condemns the attack carried out this morning by alleged elements of the Azandé Ani Kpi Gbé (AAKG) against a MINUSCA Force convoy, 22 km from Zemio, along the Zemio–Mboki axis in Haut-Mbomou Prefecture. 

Two peacekeepers were injured during the attack. They were evacuated to Bangui to receive appropriate medical care.

The Head of MINUSCA expresses her deep concern over this new attack against peacekeepers in the Central African Republic. She recalls that attacks against United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law. She calls on the Central African authorities to spare no effort in identifying the perpetrators of these acts so that they are swiftly brought to justice.

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of MINUSCA reaffirms that these cowardly attacks against the Mission’s peacekeepers will in no way undermine MINUSCA’s determination to implement its mandate in the service of peace and stability in the Central African Republic.