afrol News, 13 August - The Indian army has embarked on investigations into allegations of sexual abuse by Indian peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

On Tuesday, the United Nations issued a statement saying its probe had "revealed prima facie evidence" that many peacekeepers were engaged in sexual exploitation and abuse in the country's regions of Masisi and North Kivu.

At least 1,000 Indian peacekeepers were believed to have been involved in abusing young girls and boys over several years.

India responded to the statement saying its own probe was already underway and that the army deputy chief had visited the DRC in May to look into the allegations.

India, one of the leading troop contributors to the UN peacekeeping, said its inquiry is being reviewed by higher authorities and that allegations would be promptly and thoroughly investigated. It also expressed it willingness to take "strict and exemplary" action on those proven guilty.

The allegations have "deeply troubled" the UN chief Ban Ki-moon.

Besides, Indian soldiers were also accused of trafficking in gold while troops from Pakistani wee face indictment of trading guns with militias in Africa's vast country.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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