France to Probe Troops Sex-Abuse Claim

France confirmed its investigation into allegations that French soldiers serving as peacekeepers sexually abused children in the Central African Republic, the defense ministry said in a statement Wednesday. “If the facts are proven, the strongest penalties will be imposed on those responsible for what would be an intolerable attack on soldiers’ values,” the statement said. The claims came to light after The Guardian reported a senior UN aid worker was suspended for leaking a confidential report probing abuse by French soldiers against children at a center for displaced people in Bangui, the capital city. The UN admitted the inquiry had taken place and an “unedited version” was provided unofficially to French authorities, breaching protocol.