UN investigates new sex abuse claims

The United Nations said on Monday it is investigating new allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation by UN peacekeepers in Central African Republic, including against minors.

UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said details will be announced after an initial probe is completed.

The UN has been unable to explain why so many rapes and other sexual abuse by peacekeepers have been alleged in Central African Republic, which has been gripped by deadly violence between Christians and Muslims since late 2013. Thousands of peacekeepers from the United Nations, African Union and Europe have been deployed since then to help restore peace.