UN chief criticizes deadly attack in central Mali

 UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon on Saturday condemned an attack in Sevare, a town in central Mali, which led to killings of 13 people, including at least one United Nations contractor, while urging all the Malian people to " remain united in their pursuit of a just and sustainable peace."

A number of soldiers from the Malian Armed Forces have also reportedly been killed and injured in the incident which remains ongoing, the secretary-general noted in a statement issued here by his spokesman.

"This attack will not lessen the determination of the United Nations to accompany the Malian people in their efforts to implement the peace agreement," the statement said. "The secretary- general calls upon the people of Mali and the parties to the agreement to remain united in their pursuit of a just and sustainable peace."

The secretary-general extended his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the government and people of Mali and wished the injured a speedy and full recovery.

The attack took place earlier Saturday in a hostage siege at a hotel in Sevare, reportedly killing at least 13 people. The suspected Islamist gunmen had retreated to the hotel after attacking a nearby army base.

The siege was ended after government troops stormed the building early Saturday. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.