Post date: Jun 08, 2012 11:29:4 PM
While briefing the journalists Ban said, "I have just been told that we have lost seven peacekeepers from Niger in an ambush in the southwest of Côte d'Ivoire. I am saddened and outraged. These brave soldiers died in the service of peace. I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms.
My heart goes out to the families at this difficult time, and I express my deepest condolences to the Government of Niger for this tragedy. I call on the Government of Côte d'Ivoire to do its utmost to identify the perpetrators and hold them accountable for this deadly attack.
U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon "saddened and outraged" after seven peacekeepers are ambushed and killed in Ivory Coast.
UNITED NATIONS (JUNE 8, 2012) (UNTV) - Seven United Nations peacekeepers were killed in an ambush in Ivory Coast on Friday (June 8) while on patrol near the country's western border with neighboring Liberia, said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
I understand that their colleagues are still in danger. Even tonight, after the attack, more than 40 peacekeepers remain with the villagers in this remote region to protect them from this armed group. We have no more details at this time, but I am being briefed as events unfold.
My spokesperson will keep you informed on developments, and we will shortly issue a formal statement. My thoughts are with these brave peacekeepers and the community they are protecting."
The United Nations has a peacekeeping force of about 11,000 in Ivory Coast. UNOCI (United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire) was formed in 2004 during the country's civil war.