Libya: No Injuries When Explosive Device Thrown At UN Convoy

Libya: No Deaths or Injuries Reported After Explosive Device Thrown At UN Convoy

New York, Apr 10 2012 - No one was hurt today when an explosive device was thrown at a United Nations convoy travelling through the Libyan city of Benghazi, a spokesperson for the world body said.

The incident happened around 2:30 p.m. local time, according to Hua Jiang, spokesperson for the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

The convoy was carrying the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of UNSMIL, Ian Martin, who was in Benghazi for various engagements.

“Luckily nobody was hurt but the SRSG cut short his visit and has returned to Tripoli,” Ms. Jiang told UN Radio.

She added that it is not known who the perpetrators were.

“The matter now is handled by the local authorities. As far as we understand, an investigation has been launched,” said Ms. Jiang.

Among Mr. Martin’s activities in Benghazi was an address at the University of Benghazi, where he spoke about issues related to UN assistance to Libya in its democratic transition, including the electoral process, public security and human rights.

UNSMIL was established by the Security Council last year to assist the North African nation in its post-conflict efforts following the toppling of the regime of Muammar Al-Qadhafi.

For more details go to UN News Centre at http://www.un.org/news

ENDS

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