Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the death of peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the tragic drowning of six MONUC contingent members in Lake Kivu yesterday after their armoured personnel carrier was involved in a serious accident. He extends his most sincere condolences to the Government and people of South Africa, and to the families of the bereaved.

MONUC is carrying out a full investigation into the incident.