A Zambian peacekeeper serving under the United Nations mission in the Central African Republic (CAR) has died following an armed attack on a patrol in the country’s north, the UN announced on Saturday. The incident highlights growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the region.
The patrol, part of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), came under heavy gunfire on Friday from unknown armed individuals. Two Zambian peacekeepers sustained serious injuries in the assault, and one later succumbed to his wounds, according to a statement released by the mission.
“This is the third deadly attack on MINUSCA peacekeepers since the start of 2025,” the mission noted, underscoring the increasingly dangerous environment for international personnel operating in the country.
MINUSCA head Valentine Rugwabiza, who also serves as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for CAR, strongly denounced the attack and issued a warning that such assaults against peacekeepers may be classified as war crimes under international law.
“We call on national authorities to exert all necessary efforts to identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice without delay,” Rugwabiza stated. The mission also extended its deepest condolences to the family of the fallen peacekeeper and the government of Zambia.
The Central African Republic, which has endured years of conflict and instability, has seen a sharp increase in violent incidents targeting both civilians and peacekeeping personnel. In separate attacks earlier this year, a Tunisian peacekeeper was killed in February and a Kenyan peacekeeper lost his life in March, further demonstrating the volatile conditions faced by the UN mission.
Established in 2014, MINUSCA is tasked with protecting civilians, supporting the transition process, and facilitating humanitarian aid in CAR. Despite these efforts, peacekeepers continue to face life-threatening challenges amid ongoing unrest and the presence of armed groups in various parts of the country.