The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) takes note of a report attributed to the UN and as well as an article on The Times newspaper of 24 June 2015 on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by UN peacekeepers.
As reported, the South African troops are alleged to be on top of the list of sexual exploitation and abuse perpetrators.
Procedurally, reports of this nature are normally presented to the affected or concerned troop contributing country for consideration and processing. This particular report has not been formally received by the Department of Defence. However, the SANDF will scrutinise the quoted report and engage its originators or authors to ascertain the authenticity of its contents.
The SANDF does not condone any misconduct or acts of ill-discipline by its members, be it sexual abuse or exploitation, and to that effect the SANDF works hand-in-hand with UN officials or any relevant authorities to investigate such allegations whenever they emerge.
In principle and in line with UN guidelines, any member of the SANDF alleged to have committed an offense, the matter is investigated and if the member is found guilty, that member is withdrawn from the mission area and necessary disciplinary measures are taken.
Enquiries:
Brigadier General Xolani Mabanga
Cell: 083 410 1655
Tel: 012 355 6302
