18 April 2011

An international staff member working for the EULEX Rule of Law Mission has been suspended from his duties, and a number of other staff members temporarily transferred to other duties within the Mission, because of security concerns.

All the individuals worked as part of the Close Protection Team to the Head of Mission, with responsibility for his physical security.

The suspension and transfers are taken as a protective measure because the team’s ability to carry out their duties has been compromised.

A separate internal investigation into allegations of abuse of authority and misconduct, which is nearing its completion, is unaffected and continues. The outcome of this investigation is expected before the end of this month.