The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) is deeply saddened by the loss of five of its peacekeepers following a tragic road accident that occurred on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, 35 km northeast of Damara, in Ombella-Mpoko Prefecture.

An armored vehicle belonging to a Formed Police Unit from the Republic of the Congo, carrying seven peacekeepers, plunged into the Ombella-Mpoko River as it was about to cross a bridge. The vehicle was part of a convoy returning to Bambari after collecting equipment in Bangui.

Two police officers managed to escape from the vehicle. The bodies of four of their colleagues were recovered after several days of intensive search operations conducted jointly by all components of MINUSCA – Force, Police and civilian personnel – with unwavering support from national authorities and the local community of boatmen and fishermen. A fifth police officer remains missing.

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for the Central African Republic and Head of MINUSCA, Valentine Rugwabiza, expressed her deep sorrow: “This is a particularly painful moment for the Mission. First and foremost, my thoughts are with our fallen colleagues, who died in the service of peace. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, and to the Government and people of the Republic of the Congo. I also wish a speedy recovery to the two injured police officers.”

The Head of MINUSCA also praised the immense solidarity of the Central Africans: “Whether from the authorities, the defense and security forces, or local communities, all spontaneously joined MINUSCA’s rescue operations. I especially acknowledge the crucial role of local fishermen, whose knowledge of the environment was instrumental in recovering the bodies of four peacekeepers.”

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Secretary-General of the United Nations paid tribute “to the dedication of UN peacekeepers who continue to serve in the most challenging environments.” He also reaffirmed “his unwavering appreciation for the commitment and sacrifice of the men and women who serve with MINUSCA in the cause of peace in the Central African Republic”.

An official ceremony will be held soon to honor the memory of the fallen peacekeepers.

Contact

Florence Marchal

Porte-parole & Cheffe adjointe / Spokesperson & Deputy Chief

Service de la communication stratégique et de l’information publique / Strategic Communication and Public Information Service

+236 75 98 17 13 | marchalf@un.org