Kinshasa, 28 December 2012: On 26 December 2012 at approximately 20 hours, two MONUSCO helicopters were 20 kilometers North of Goma undertaking a routine flying certification when they were fired upon; once from Kibumba and again from Kanyamahoro, two localities under M23 control. This is the second time that UN helicopters have been deliberately targeted by M23 elements during the month of December 2012.

These attacks were reported to the members of the Joint Verification Mechanism (JVM) in Goma.

These unarmed utility helicopters are routinely used for medical evacuation for both UN personnel and civilians.

MONUSCO reminds that peacekeepers are in the exclusive service of peace, and that any attack against them constitutes a war crime. Those responsible for such acts will be prosecuted and brought to justice.