UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is appealing for calm and the easing of tensions in Kakuma refugee camp after yesterday’s violent confrontation between some LGBTI refugees and members of the local community.
The incident left one female refugee sustaining minor injuries and a local young man suffering serious injuries requiring hospitalization and further medical examination. We were informed that his condition stabilized during the night.
As soon as we received news of the incident, UNHCR staff visited the scene, offering assistance and following up on the situation, in liaison with the authorities. The Police responded immediately and have reinforced security in the Block 13 area. They are also investigating the accounts of the event provided to UNHCR by refugees living in Block 13, local community members, and other eyewitnesses.
Together with the Turkana County authorities, we continue to work with the refugees and the local communities to maintain calm and appeal for peaceful coexistence among all communities in Kakuma.
ENDS
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Eujin Byun, +254 798 487 988
Dana Hughes, +254 733 440 536
Rose Ogola, +254 729 578 809
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