Ivory Coast combatants told not to seek revenge

Published on Friday 1 April 2011 20:55

THE United Nations' human rights office called on Alassane Ouattara to rein in his forces yesterday, citing unconfirmed reports they had abducted and mistreated civilians.

It also cited sporadic reports of pro-Gbagbo forces killing civilians and reminded both sides that they could be held responsible before the International Criminal Court.

"We've had unconfirmed reports of quite serious human rights violations committed by the Forces Republicaines de Cote d'Ivoire, pro-Ouattara forces, particularly in the west," UN spokesman Rupert Colville said. Asked for details, he replied: "Looting, extortion but more seriously matters such as abduction, arbitrary arrests, ill-treatment of civilians, possibly other acts as well."

"There should be no revenge acts taking place. The forces should show restraint," Mr Colville said.

The UN human rights office had alarming reports about the pro-Ouattara "Invisible Commando" in Abidjan.

Two civilians were reported to have been burned alive by Gbagbo militia in Gagnoa, and at least three were killed in the Abidjan district of Abobo.