The United Nations says "it is possible, it's horribly possible" that more allegations of sexual abuse of children by French and other soldiers in Central African Republic could come to light as investigations continue.
A UN human rights spokesman reminded reporters in Geneva on Friday that conditions where the alleged abuse occurred last year were chaotic, with thousands of displaced people taking refuge at the capital's airport and under protection of French and other troops.
Rupert Colville said UN officials now have to see what French authorities find as their investigation continues. He called the allegations "abhorrent" and "utterly odious."
"Longer term, only the French can do this investigation ... fully," he said.
Residents of the camp for displaced persons have told the Associated Press that French soldiers tasked with protecting civilians during months of vicious sectarian violence in the country had sexually abused boys as young as nine years old.
France's investigations follow an initial UN investigation into the allegations a year ago. All of the probes came to light on Wednesday when a report in the Guardian newspaper pushed officials to publicly acknowledge the allegations.
France's president has promised tough punishment for any soldier found guilty. French military officials have refused to say whether the soldiers have been identified or whether any were still serving in Central African Republic.
Recommended reading:
Hollande vows 'no mercy' for troops if found guilty of CAR child rape
Share
