Three UN-African Union Peacekeepers Killed in Ambush in Darfur

Strategic Insights -

Three blue helmets serving with the joint United Nations-African Union force (UNAMID) in Sudan's Darfur region were killed in an ambush at a camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs). The attack, which occurred on October 11, 2011, resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and one police adviser. Six other peacekeepers were injured, with three of them seriously hurt.

Key Takeaways:

  • The joint UN-African Union force (UNAMID) lost three peacekeepers in an ambush at a camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Zam Zam, a large IDP camp in North Darfur state.
  • The attack occurred during a regular night patrol and resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and one police adviser.
  • Six other peacekeepers were injured, with three of them suffering serious injuries.
  • The head of UNAMID, Ibrahim Gambari, strongly condemned the attack and called on Sudanese authorities to launch an immediate investigation.
  • The attack occurred two months after another UNAMID peacekeeper was slain, following an ambush in South Darfur.
  • Thirty-two personnel from UNAMID have died as a result of hostile actions since the mission started in January 2008.
  • Many humanitarian workers have also been targeted in attacks by bandits or armed groups in Darfur.

Statistics:

  • Three UN-African Union peacekeepers killed in the ambush.
  • Two soldiers and one police adviser among the deceased.
  • Six other peacekeepers injured, with three suffering serious injuries.
  • One attacker killed in the incident.
  • Thirty-two UNAMID personnel have died as a result of hostile actions since January 2008.
  • The conflict in Darfur has resulted in millions of civilians being either internally displaced or forced to seek refuge in neighboring countries.

Sources:

  • M2 PressWIRE C)1994-2011, October 11, 2011: Three UN-African Union peacekeepers killed in ambush in Darfur