Democratic Republic of the Congo / United Nations /
Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General

 

KINSHASA, Dem. Rep. of Congo (DRC) August 12, 2008

/African Press Organization (APO)/ —

The Secretary-General is deeply troubled by the outcome of an

investigation by the Office of the Internal Oversight Services, which

has revealed prima facie evidence that members of one of the

peacekeeping units of the Indian contingent previously assigned to the

United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the

Congo (MONUC) may have engaged in sexual exploitation and abuse. He

reiterates, in the strongest possible terms, that such behaviour, if

substantiated, is wholly unacceptable and that disciplinary action to

the maximum degree permitted by Indian law should be taken as soon as

possible against those found to be involved in such misconduct.

 

The Government of India has assured the UN that the allegations

will be promptly and thoroughly investigated and, if proven, strict and

exemplary action would be taken as per the law.

 

The Secretary-General highly values India's long-standing and

valuable support for United Nations peacekeeping. He expresses his

respect for all those peacekeepers from India and other troop

contributing countries who serve with honour and commitment, and

stresses that the misconduct of a few should not diminish the enormous

contribution and sacrifice of the large number of blue helmets who serve

the cause of peace.




--
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