New York

16 February 2016

Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the murder of a United Nations staff member in Iraq

The Secretary-General condemns the shocking murder, verified on 15 February, of Amer al-Kaissy, an Iraqi national who served as liaison officer for the United Nations Mission in Iraq in Diyala, Iraq. Mr. al-Kaissy, who was abducted in Diyala Governorate in April 2015 by unidentified persons, distinguished himself as a courageous and dedicated UNAMI staff member.

The Secretary-General calls on Iraqi authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are held accountable. He conveys his heartfelt condolences to Mr. al-Kaissy's family and friends.