Secretary-General Greatly Relieved at Release of Four Peacekeepers in Darfur

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is greatly relieved to learn about the release of the four peacekeepers who had been abducted in Darfur two weeks ago.  He appreciates the efforts made by the Government of Sudan to secure the safe release of the four police officers serving with the African Union-United Nations mission in Darfur (UNAMID).  He once more emphasizes to all parties the importance of ensuring the safety of all United Nations and other personnel who are on the ground to help the people of Darfur.

The four police officers, who are from South Africa, are believed to be in good health, and there will now be a more full evaluation of their health conditions.  The Secretary-General thanks the Government of South Africa for its help in securing their safe release.

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For information media • not an official record