Nepali Army’s Jabarjung Battalion honored with UN Force Commander’s Commendation in Central African Republic

Jabarjung Battalion of the Nepali Army deployed in the Central African Republic under the United Nations peacekeeping mission has received a certificate of appreciation for pushing back armed groups from their stronghold.

The Nepal Army's 4th Battalion has been awarded with a certificate of appreciation called ‘Force Commander’s Commendation’. It was honored especially for freeing the city of Boyo from the clutches of armed group UPC which was holding the city in the past nine years since the establishment of the MINUSCA Mission by the UN. UPC is notorious for its ruthless attacks on civilians.

The Nepali troops were deployed as reinforcement to various locations to pacify the situation and to protect the population from any threat possible. Earlier Commander and troops of NEPHRPB (Jabarjung Battalion) had successfully intervened in some serious atrocities from another armed group called anti-Balaka on 7 December 2021. The people of Boyo were relieved by the daring and successful intervention of the NEPHRPB first UN troops reached Boyo and established peace there. Later the Nepali Army were able to subdue another armed group called UPC. The Nepali team was deployed in the Boyo area after the rebel group, which represents the Muslim and Christian communities, massacred members of each other's communities.

A letter by the UN to Nepal Army regarding the certification reads, “the armed movement of UPC seen in BOYO on 23 December 2021 and the quick response by the TOB BOYO for the Protection of Civilian in Boyo by immediate launching the robust patrolling 24/7 through the city of Boyo was a milestone in the POC duties which can protect the civilian though the UPC were entered to the city of BOYO. The relentless effort of the NEPHRPB were able to protect the lives of the population BOYO.

“The courageous effort of the Battalion Commander and his troops from Tob Boyo with tireless robust patrolling and action could make the Boyo city free from UPC on 26 December 2021 is highly appreciated and commendable,” reads the letter. The operation to make Boyo free from UPC was successful only from the well planned and coordinated effort of NEP HRPB IV troops with a full dedication and devotion to the service to the MINUSCA.

At present the situation of BOYO is safe and calm and this very operation has left positive impact of MINUSCA as this military robust presence was the pioneer in the history, The senior leadership of MINUSCA and various agencies appreciated the courage, determination, endurance and level of professionalism demonstrated by NEP HRPB IV troops under the guidance of Task Force and efficient leadership LT Col Rajesh Bikram Shahi through his initiative professionalism and tremendous military spirit has been able to support and reinforce the operation and make it possible with his outstanding performance. The contribution offered by his very valuable team members also immensely and ardently counted to make the operation a big success.

The letter also reads “the utmost dedication, devotion, courage, bravery and commitment shown by NEP HRPB-IV to ensure POC at Boyo is highly commendable. Through its action and unfailing dedication for the successful initiation of the operation tabled as in Boyo, It has brought honor to the MINUSCA Force, the Mission, and the United Nations. The work accomplished has helped home nation Nepal shine in the international arena, Considering the contribution and good deeds of NEP HRPB IV in the service of humanity and peace, the contingent is hereby awarded with.”

According to military officials, the fourth batch of the Jabarjung Battalion was mobilized in the Boyo area on December 7 after the massacre and burning of Sanyo's house by Anti-Balaka. About two weeks after the incident, another UPC group besieged the Nepali team in an attempt to take control of the Boyo area.

According to the information provided by the Directorate of Public Relations and Information of the Nepal Army, the Jabar Jung Battalion had conducted a patrol in the Boyo area from 27 December to 8 December under the name 'Jabar-1'. Similarly, 'Jabar-2' patrol has been conducted since 9 December.