ICC expresses concern over situation in central African republic

The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, ICC, Fatou Bensouda, Monday expressed her concerns over the unfolding events in the Central African Republic, and in particular reports of serious on-going crimes. "The deteriorating security situation over the past several days has contributed to the escalation of unlawful killings, sexual violence, recruitment of child soldiers and other grave crimes, across the country. "The situation worsens daily and thousands of civilians are fleeing the violence," she said in a statement at the Hague. "War crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide fall under the subject matter jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court. I hereby call upon all parties involved in the conflict, to stop attacking civilians and committing crimes, or risk being investigated and prosecuted by my Office. The victims of such crimes cannot be left unheard," she added. Bensouda welcomed the international community's efforts to stabilise the security situation in the country and end the violence, noting in particular the arrival of the United Nations and African Union-backed forces in the capital.