UN warns against premature exit of peacekeepers from Central African Republic

The United Nations has warned against the withdrawal of peacekeepers from the Central African Republic as neighbouring Sudan's war fuels instability along its eastern borders. The UN also announced the release of hostages held since last year by a local militia. Notwithstanding these positive developments, the security situation in the northeast remains the cause of serious concern. On 30 June, elements from different armed groups attacked the locality of Am Dafok, located at the border with Sudan. killing civilians and members of the National Defense and Security Forces, displacing more than 17,000 civilians who sought refuge at the small MINUSCA temporary operating base. The attack also targeted Minusca's peacekeepers, injuring six of our peacekeepers. She said its rapid response capability prevented a larger death toll and helped restore state authority. Rugwabisa urged the Security Council to maintain the force with enough troops to consolidate gains made when it reviews MINUSCA's mandate in November.