Swiss geologist killed in armed attack in Central African Republic

A Swiss citizen and a Central African Republic (CAR) soldier were killed in an armed attack north of the capital, Bangui, Agence France-Presse reports, citing a senior CAR military officer.

The officer said the Swiss citizen had come to carry out geological exploration work, and the soldier was assigned to provide his security.

The attack took place on July 30, about 18 kilometres from the town of Damara, approximately 50 kilometers north of Bangui.

According to the officer, the assault was carried out by "as yet unidentified armed bandits."

The victims' bodies have been transferred to Bangui.

Judicial authorities in the Central African Republic are expected to open an investigation to establish the circumstances of the attack and bring those responsible to justice.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov