Defence still investigating sex scandals

THE Ministry of Defence is yet to complete its investigation into the alleged sexual exploitation and abuse of women and children by Namibian soldiers stationed in Liberia.

At least three Namibian soldiers serving in the UN peacekeeping force in Liberia were ordered to return to Namibia two months ago after the Government received a UN report detailing sexual abuse by Namibian soldiers in Liberia. Their sexual escapades are believed to have led to pregnancies in that country.Defence Deputy Minister Victor Simunja told reporters at the time that his ministry would launch an inquiry to decide what course of action to take.Asked about the latest developments, an official in the ministry’s Public Relations Department, Margareth Amagulu, told Nampa that the matter was still under investigation.Amagulu could not say whether the Ministry had set up a commission of inquiry yet.The Ministry has so far declined to give details about the allegations against the three soldiers.The UN requires governments contributing troops to its peacekeeping missions to pay compensation to the victims of any abuse perpetrated by soldiers.According to UN standing orders, peacekeeping soldiers may not become sexually involved with civilians in countries where they are deployed.Namibia has about 850 soldiers deployed in Liberia.The mission is expected to end in March next year, but the UN can extend the operation if it deems it necessary.- NampaTheir sexual escapades are believed to have led to pregnancies in that country.Defence Deputy Minister Victor Simunja told reporters at the time that his ministry would launch an inquiry to decide what course of action to take.Asked about the latest developments, an official in the ministry’s Public Relations Department, Margareth Amagulu, told Nampa that the matter was still under investigation.Amagulu could not say whether the Ministry had set up a commission of inquiry yet.The Ministry has so far declined to give details about the allegations against the three soldiers.The UN requires governments contributing troops to its peacekeeping missions to pay compensation to the victims of any abuse perpetrated by soldiers.According to UN standing orders, peacekeeping soldiers may not become sexually involved with civilians in countries where they are deployed.Namibia has about 850 soldiers deployed in Liberia.The mission is expected to end in March next year, but the UN can extend the operation if it deems it necessary.- Nampa