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UNICEF Calls for End to Massacre of Children and Families in Niger

Keminni Amanor

   The U.N. children's fund has strongly condemned the killing of at least
   17 minors among scores of others slain in a weekend massacre in Niger.

   UNICEF says unofficial sources put the death toll from Saturday's
   attack in Tchomo-Bangou and Zaroumadareye villages at more than 100. A
   UNICEF statement Tuesday said the victims include 10 boys and seven
   girls, who were believed to be under the age of 16.

   Gunmen surrounded the villages in the southwestern Tillaberi region and
   began killing people. Some children were burned to death, UNICEF said.
   There has been no claim of responsibility.

   "Such wanton violence and disregard for the lives of children and
   families must be condemned in the strongest possible terms," said
   Henrietta Fore, UNICEF executive director.

   She said these "heinous acts are grave violations of children's rights
   and of international humanitarian and human rights law."

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