MINUSCA warns FPRC against any plans to attack Bangassou

The United Nations Multi-Dimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) is determined to prevent any attempt by the Popular Front for Renaissance of Central African (FPRC) to occupy Bangassou (Mbomou Prefecture, south of CAR), from the locality of Bakouma, which would have dramatic consequences for the civilian population. MINUSCA is taking the necessary steps and has sent messages to the leaders of this armed group to abandon this plan. The Mission also calls on the FPRC and all armed elements to immediately cease violence against civilians, especially in Bakouma, and to leave the locality. The judiciary will investigate crimes committed recently in Bangassou, Bakouma, Alindao, Nzako and elsewhere. As part of its security measures for the city of Bangassou, the Mission warned the anti-Balaka against all violence aimed at the civilian population and peacekeepers. The Mission reminds those responsible for these attacks that they will bear full responsibility for the violence. MINUSCA reassures the Central African people on its efforts to end the violence and protect the population, including thousands of displaced people in Bangassou, Mobaye and Bria, including the presence of peacekeepers and peace initiatives with its Central African partners. To this end, the Mission welcomes the professionalism, commitment and impartiality of the troops deployed in this region of the CAR to protect the population. The Mission regrets that misinformation about the events in south-eastern CAR has been circulating in recent days involving peacekeepers. MINUSCA recalls that the current crisis has already caused several deaths and thousands of displaced people and that the involvement of the Central Africans to restore peace is essential to end the suffering of the civilian population. The Mission reiterates its readiness to support all efforts in this direction, for peace and stability in the prefecture of Mbomou and throughout the CAR.