REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- The Indonesian Military has dispatched a peacekeeping contingent of Garuda XXXV-A/United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) comprising 800 personnel to the conflict-prone area in Darfur, Sudan.
"At least 800 soldiers comprising 650 Indonesian Army personnel, 100 Navy personnel, and 50 Air Force personnel will serve in the area," the Indonesian Military Chief General Moeldoko stated here on Wednesday.
Moeldoko remarked that based on the UN Resolution No. 1769/2007, the UNAMID personnel have the right to deploy soldiers, protect the personnel, facilities and equipment as well as to ensure free mobility for the UN peacekeeping personnel and humanity organizations.
The UNAMID also has the right to prevent security breaches and armed threats. The personnel will also secure the border areas including the borders of Sudan-Chad and Sudan-Central Africa.
According to Moeldoko, the commander of the task force should provide comprehensive information regarding the UNAMID standing operating procedures and the rules of engagement.
"Thus, I asked the task force commander and all members of staff and also the soldiers to understand the UNAMID mandate and mission as the wisdom of the UN Security Council," Moeldoko stated.
The Konga XXXV/A Composite Battalion is the first Indonesian Military task force, which is prepared to take part in the UN peacekeeping mission in Darfur and will carry out its peacekeeping duties for a period of one year.
The Indonesian Military has also sent tactical vehicles such as 24 ANOA 6x6 panzers, 30 trucks, and 34 jeeps.
The personnel will be stationed at two UN Camps such as in Supercamp Secwest UNAMID in El Geneina and Masteri Camp, which is located 70 kilometers from El Geneina.
Indonesia, through the program, will implement the world order based on independence, timeless peace, and social justice as listed in the Indonesian Constitution of 1945.