Zambian authorities are making plans to repatriate the remains of local soldier killed last week while serving with the United Nations mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).
The Zambia Army member was killed and another wounded following an armed attack on a UN patrol in the country’s north, officials confirmed.
The deadly ambush, which occurred on 20 June, marked the third fatal assault on MINUSCA forces this year, highlighting the increasing risks for international peacekeepers operating in the conflict-torn nation.
Zambia’s Ministry of Defence on Tuesday said arrangements are underway to repatriate the remains of the deceased soldier.
“We are in touch with the United Nations and the two families to ensure that all processes are followed in the repatriation of the remains of the deceased soldier and the treatment of the wounded soldier,” said Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu in a statement.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the attack, urging CAR authorities to ensure those responsible are swiftly brought to justice.
MINUSCA, established in 2014 by the UN Security Council, is tasked with stabilising CAR in the face of ongoing insecurity and humanitarian crises.
To date, the mission has lost more than 150 personnel in the line of duty.
The latest attack follows earlier incidents in February and March that claimed the lives of peacekeepers from Tunisia and Kenya, underscoring the volatile security landscape confronting the mission.
JN/APA