U.N Helicopter Crash: Perpetrators must be brought to book! – Body tasks Federal Government!
The United Nations (U.N) have reacted strongly after the attack on its aid helicopter by insurgents in Damasak area of Borno State.
Reports has it that the insurgents opened fire on the helicopter on Saturday till it crashed and two people including a five year old child died as a result of the crash.
The U.N has therefore tasked the Federal Government to immediately Investigate the attack and quickly bring the offenders to justice.
This was contained in a statement tied: “Statement on Attack in Damasak, Damage to Aid Helicopter’ signed by the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon.
Mr Kallon said:
“I deplore that a UN Humanitarian Air Service helicopter was hit by bullets during the attack. No aid workers were on board at the time and crew members are all safe. My thoughts are also with the crew and I commend them for piloting the chopper back to safety during this critical situation.”
“The attack and damage to the helicopter severely affect the ability of aid actors to provide urgently needed assistance to vulnerable people in remote areas across Borno State.”
He also said: ”
I strongly condemn any attack against civilians, humanitarian assets or aid workers and call on all armed parties to respect international humanitarian law and international human rights law, and ensure the protection of civilians, humanitarian property and personnel.
“I call on the Nigerian authorities to reinforce the safety and security of all humanitarian workers.”
“I welcome the Government commitment to investigate the attack and swiftly bring to justice the perpetrators.”
extend my sincere condolences to the families of the civilians who lost their lives in the attack and wish a prompt recovery to those injured.”