UN Peacekeeping Force issues message

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) is investigating an incident in which a peacekeeper threw a punch at a Turkish Cypriot soldier in Lefkoşa on Monday.

UNFICYP which issued a written statement said that the matter was being investigated carefully and that the UN took the allegations very seriously.

In a written statement, UNFICYP spokesman Aleem Siddique said that UNFICYP is aware of the allegations and is continuing its investigation.

“We will not hesitate to take the right action after a thorough investigation,” Siddique said, emphasizing that all UN Peacekeeping personnel must behave to the highest standards and be held accountable for their actions.

The incident took place behind the Ledra Palace hotel in an area disputed by the UN and the Turkish Cypriot side, while cleaning works were taking place.

It is understood that an argument between soldiers from the Cyprus Turkish Security Forces and UNFICYP personnel escalated, with one peacekeeper throwing a punch at a Turkish Cypriot soldier.