SECRETARY-GENERAL SHOCKED BY REPORTS FROM SIERRA LEONE OF MUTILATED BODIES FOUND WEARING UN UNIFORMS

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary- General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General is shocked by reports from Sierra Leone that several mutilated bodies have been found wearing United Nations uniforms. At this time, it is by no means certain that the bodies belong to United Nations peacekeepers. However, the Secretary-General is appalled by the culture of violence and cruelty which pervades the conflict in Sierra Leone.

He calls on all involved parties to respect fully international humanitarian law and recognized standards of human rights. The Secretary-General hopes that the continuing efforts by regional leaders will lead to the expeditious and unconditional release of all United Nations personnel detained by the Revolutionary United Front.