Three Tanzanian peacekeepers serving on the United Nations’ mission in Central African Republic (MINUSCA) were injured on Thursday, when their vehicle struck an unidentified explosive device.
One of the soldiers was seriously hurt, and needed to be evacuated to Bouar for treatment and then on to the capital, Bangui, MINUSCA informed.
The ‘blue helmets’ were in the village of Batouri Bole, in Mambéré-Kadéï, in the southwest of the country, when the incident happened.
It took place around 11:00 a.m., local time, as their convoy left the town of Berbérati for the Force’s temporary military outposts in Gbambia and Amada-Gaza, which are located around 100 kilometers northeast of Berbérati.
MINUSCA peacekeepers on patrol in Central African Republic., by MINUSCA/Catianne Tijerina
Fulfilling the mandate
MINUSCA has strongly condemned the use of explosive devices by armed groups in contested areas of CAR, which have already caused dozens of deaths and injuries among the civilian population.
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of MINUSCA, Mankeur Ndiaye, wished a speedy recovery to the wounded peacekeepers.
“Despite the difficult conditions our peacekeepers face on the ground, aggravated by the appearance of improvised explosive devices, MINUSCA remains resolutely determined to carry out its mandate for peace and stability,” he said.
Series of attacks
This is the third time that MINUSCA peacekeepers have fallen victim to explosive devices detonating beneath UN vehicles.
Back in November, a rogue attack by elements of the presidential guard against a vehicle from the mission, left ten unarmed Egyptian blue helmets injured in Bangui.
At the time, UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, urged authorities to spare no effort in investigating the “unacceptable attack.”
More than 14,000 uniformed personnel serve with MINUSCA, which has been in the country since 2014, following the eruption the previous year of deadly inter-communal violence between mainly Christian and mainly Muslim militias, which destabilized CAR.
The Government declared a unilateral ceasefire in October, and although much of the country remains in the grip of armed groups, positive steps have been made this year to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.
Nora Chambers, an acclaimed journalist with a focus on global affairs and humanitarian issues, has dedicated over twenty years to reporting from conflict zones worldwide. Her work has spotlighted marginalized communities and highlighted urgent international concerns.
Were there any precautions or security measures in place to prevent such incidents from occurring?
Yes, there were security protocols in place for the peacekeepers, but unfortunately, incidents like these are difficult to predict and prevent in such volatile areas.
It’s truly heartbreaking to hear about the injuries sustained by the Tanzanian peacekeepers in the Central African Republic. These brave individuals put themselves at risk to protect others, and they deserve our utmost respect and support. I hope for a swift recovery for the injured soldier and commend MINUSCA for their dedication to peacekeeping efforts in such challenging circumstances.
It’s heart-wrenching to hear that these brave peacekeepers were injured in the line of duty. Their sacrifices should never go unnoticed. Let’s pray for their swift recovery and for an end to these senseless acts of violence in Central African Republic.
It’s heartbreaking to hear about the Tanzanian peacekeepers getting injured while serving in Central African Republic. I hope they all have a quick recovery and are able to return safely to their families. It’s a dangerous mission, but their dedication to peace is admirable.
It’s truly heartbreaking to hear about the injuries sustained by the Tanzanian peacekeepers in Central African Republic. The use of explosive devices in such conflict areas only adds to the already dire situation for civilians. Wishing a quick recovery for the injured soldiers and hoping for a safer environment for all involved.
It’s heartbreaking to hear about the injuries sustained by the Tanzanian peacekeepers in CAR. They risk their lives to bring peace to troubled regions, and yet they face such dangers. Wishing them a swift recovery and hoping for their safe return to duty.
I am deeply saddened to hear about the injuries sustained by the Tanzanian peacekeepers in the Central African Republic. It is essential for the safety and well-being of all individuals in conflict areas to be a top priority. My thoughts are with those affected, and I hope for a swift recovery for the injured soldiers.
It’s heartbreaking to see these brave peacekeepers putting their lives on the line in such dangerous environments. Their dedication to serving in MINUSCA is truly admirable. Let’s hope for a swift recovery for the injured soldier and for an end to such senseless violence in Central African Republic.
It’s truly disheartening to hear about the Tanzanian peacekeepers getting injured in Central African Republic. These brave individuals risk their lives to bring peace to troubled regions, and their safety should be a top priority. Wishing a swift recovery to the injured soldier and thanking all peacekeepers for their dedication and service.
It’s truly heartbreaking to hear about the injuries sustained by the Tanzanian peacekeepers. Their sacrifice and dedication in serving in such dangerous environments should be commended. Wishing them a full and speedy recovery.
I believe it’s truly unfortunate that these brave peacekeepers have to endure such dangers while fulfilling their mandate. My thoughts are with them for a quick and full recovery. Let’s hope for a safer mission for all UN peacekeepers in conflict zones.
Were there any prior warnings or intelligence indicating the presence of explosive devices in the area where the peacekeepers were operating?