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Evidence found of abuse by UN staff

Kofi Annan - Abuse in Congo uncovered
Kofi Annan - Abuse in Congo uncovered

The United Nations Secretary General, Kofi Annan, has said there is clear evidence that UN peacekeeping staff sexually abused refugees in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mr Annan said a small number of civilian and military personnel had committed acts of gross misconduct.

Revelations of sex abuse first surfaced last Spring and prompted a UN watchdog to investigate. A spokesman said 70 cases had since been examined but fewer than 30 were actionable.

It is unclear how many UN personnel are accused of sexually exploiting refugees.