Highlights

-DDR boss visits Ferkessedougou;
-SEA-, HIV-awareness training continues;
-Banbatt provides water to support redeployment of administrators

DDR

The head of UNOCI's Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR)Division, Ould Sidi Mohamed, today inspected DDR sites in the northern town of Korhogo and Ferkessedougou. Mr Ould Sidi, who has been on a mission to the centre and north of the country since Monday, previously visited sites in Bouaké. He was accompanied by representatives of other UNOCI divisions [PIO, Gender], and National Programme for Reintegration and Community Rehabilitation (PNRRC).

Security

Two persons who were shot by guards employed by a private security firm while travelling by motorcycle between Bondoukou and Boundiali on 14 April have died from their wounds, according to military observers in the area. The men had reportedly refused to stop when ordered to do so by the guards.

Arms embargo inspections

Arms embargo inspections were conducted successfully in the areas of Daoukro and Bondoukou in the centre and east respectively, Dioulatiedougou (north) and Béoumi (centre).

Human Rights

On 14 April, Mr. Sanogo Amadou, a deserter from the Armed Forces of the Forces Nouvelles (FAFN) reported to the Regional Human Rights Office in Bouaké (HR-Bouaké) that he had received death threats from FAFN elements accusing him of being a sympathizer of Sergent-Chef Ibrahim Coulibaly, alias "IB". He said that, on 3 February, FAFN elements in a car marked "Bataillon Anaconda" went to his home and stabbed him on the side of his chest before he managed to escape. He received medical treatment at UNOCI's Sector East HQ hospital on the same day. Mr. Sanogo, who fears for his life, requested UNOCI protection.

HR-Bouaké reported that a Mr. Doumbia Mamadou was allegedly ill-treated during his detention at the police station from 7 to 10 April by three FAFN members on suspicion of robbery. He said he was repeatedly beaten with military belts and a machete by FAFN elements, who tried to force him to confess. HRO-Bouaké noted wounds on his body. Mr Doumbia added that his family had to pay 15,000 FCFA (36 USD) for his release on 10 April. The office is to discuss the case with FAFN police commissioner Gnamien Sylvain.

Following the intervention of HR-Odienné, two men whom FAFN member Doo Diabaté Alpha had detained since 21 February at the Odienne gendarmerie on suspicion of cattle-rustling were released on 15 April.

Humanitarian

ONUCI's Banbatt contingent in the western town of Man this week provided 660 gallons of pure drinking water to some 155 staff members of the National Committee for the Redeployment of the Administration. Meanwhile, contingents continue to provide medical services to residents of various areas.

SEA

As part of routine training activities, UNOCI's Moroccan contingent yesterday organized a motivation class on "Special measures for protection from Sexual exploitation and abuse" for its members in the western locations of Duékoué, Bangolo and Logoualé.

HIV/AIDS

UNOCI's HIV/Aids Unit today conducted an AIDS-awareness session for UNOCI security guards in Bouaké.