An Integrated Multidimensional Mission of Nations Blue Helmet United for Stabilization in Mali (MINUSMA) was killed and 8 others wounded on Friday, June 9, in an attack on one of its patrols security in the city of Ber, in the region of Timbuktu, in the north Mali, announced the UN mission in a statement.
Patrol was targeted by an explosive device attack improvised (IED) followed by direct fire, said MINUSMA, stressing that one peacekeeper had been killed and eight others seriously injured. “I strongly condemn this cowardly act against our patrol. This loss is a stark reminder of the risks to which our soldiers of peace face as they work tirelessly to bring stability and peace for the people of Mali,” said El-Ghassim Wane, Chief of MINUSMA.
Mr. Wane offered his “sincere condolences to the government, the brothers-in-arms and families of deceased colleagues” and wished a prompt recovery to the injured, according to the statement. The security and protection of peacekeepers remains a priority, and everything will be implemented to strengthen their protection in the face of changing security challenges in Mali.
MINUSMA reaffirmed its commitment to the people of Mali and its determination to continue its mission of promoting peace and stability in the country. The Mission will work closely with the Malian authorities to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice, concludes
the communiqué.
Source: PANAPRESS
