UN OBTAINS MASERU SECURITY OFFICER

UNCLAS MASERU 000224

SIPDIS

DEPT FOR DS, AF/S AND AF/EX

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: ASEC LT UN
SUBJECT: UN OBTAINS MASERU SECURITY OFFICER

REF: (A) MASERU 187 (B) MASERU 167 (C) MASERU 165

This is to advise that the UN Mission in Maseru, due to the
critical crime threat and potential insecurity, has succeeded in
obtaining headquarters concurrence for a Security Officer here
after requesting one in February 2005. The UN's Resident
Representative explained (following April 28 joint meeting with
the GOL Minister for Security) that the threat and crime levels
prompted her request immediately upon arrival to Lesotho in
early 2005. We note the UN asked for the U.S. Embassy's
assistance in locating a security firm and quickly installed
fencing and barriers similar to the Chancery's. The UN's
previous coverage by a Regional Officer in Johannesburg was
determined to be insufficient given conditions in Lesotho. We
encourage Department to seek similar protection for U.S. Mission
and American citizens posted here with their UN colleagues.

PERRY