Port-au-Prince - January 23, 2012 – The United Nations Mission Stabilization in Haiti (MINUSTAH) deeply regrets to inform that it received two reports of two cases of grave allegations of sexual and exploitation abuses that may have been perpetrated by elements of its police force.

In accordance with the United Nations Organization’s zero tolerance policy towards such acts, an investigation has immediately been opened, which will be carried out with all deliberate speed and in full respect of the rights of the alleged victims as well as of the alleged accused.  As opposed to allegations referring to acts of misconduct of military personnel, inquiries on cases concerning civilian and police personnel fall under the United Nations’ responsibility. 

As soon as he was informed of these allegations, the MINUSTAH Police Commissioner suspended the alleged perpetrators as a conservatory measure, in order to prevent any potential interference with the investigation process.

According to the UN rules and regulations, the Mission’s leadership immediately informed the United Nations’ Headquarters in New York, which in turn dispatched an investigative team to Haiti. The team arrived in the country on Saturday. As per the procedure, the countries of origin of the individuals against whom the allegations were made, have been informed. 

« As the Secretary General’s Special representative in Haiti, and as the Head of MINUSTAH, I wish to reiterate my commitment to enforce the zero tolerance policy towards abuses perpetrated by the Mission’s personnel», declared MINUSTAH Chief Mariano Fernández Amunátegui. « Each member of the United Nations, whether civilian, military or police, is obliged to observe an exemplary behavior. This is a commitment he/she makes upon joining the United Nations, anywhere in the world. We will continue to take the strictest measures in order to ensure, when needed, that the perpetrators of such acts be sanctioned with the strongest severity ».

The United Nations have established a support system for victims of sexual exploitation and abuse. In Haiti, it is implemented by MINUSTAH in coordination with other agencies of the United Nations system and national partners. This mechanism aims at guaranteeing swift medical and psycho-social assistance. The Mission, if needed, is ready to assist the victims.