18 11 13 Xinhua: UN calls for immediate action after reported killings of children in DR Congo

 "According to
information received, which is currently being verified, at least 20 people,
including 12 children, have been reportedly killed," said a news release
issued by the UN Children' s Fund (UNICEF) and the UN peacekeeping mission in
DRC (MONUSCO).

"Investigations must
be undertaken by judicial authorities so as those responsible for these acts
are brought to justice, in accordance with the Congolese Criminal Code,"
it said.

The two organizations said
the "alarming reports" coincide with the start of the Operation
Likofi (Punch in Lingala) undertaken from Nov. 15 to Feb. 15 next year by
Congolese authorities to curb urban delinquency, according to the press
release.

"UNICEF and MONUSCO
call for immediate steps to be taken by Congolese authorities to put an end to
such acts," it stated.

They recalled that the
state must in all circumstances ensure that human rights are protected and that
children receive special protection, in line with Congolese laws and
international treaties and conventions.

"The
United Nations reiterates its willingness to support the Congolese government
in its search for durable solutions to problems regarding the social
reintegration of children and youths, " it added.