A captain in the Chadian Armed Forces has posthumously received the United Nations (UN) highest peacekeeping honour, the Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal for Exceptional Courage.

Captain Abdelrazakh Hamit Bahar was honored for his actions during a counterattack while serving with MINUSMA, the UN mission in Mali, in April last year.

“The captain was deployed at Aguelhok super camp in the northeast when he was attacked by an armed terrorist group who were trying to take over the base and its outposts.

“He led a daring counterattack to defend the camp, protect the lives of his colleagues and avoid civilian casualties. While attempting to secure the perimeter, Captain Abdelrazakh noticed armed assailants entering a nearby house. Determined to ensure they do no harm to his colleagues and the civilian population, he single-handedly led an operation to clear and secure the house where he was shot and killed,” the UN said.

“Captain Abdelrazakh’s willingness to risk his own life to save others exemplifies the courage and dedication of more than one million peacekeepers who have served on the front lines of conflict since 1948,” the Secretary said. Deputy General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix. in tribute to the second United Nations peacekeeper to be honored with the Diagne Medal.

“The captain’s sacrifice highlights the growing danger facing UN peacekeepers doing vital work in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

“Captain Abdelrazakh made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of peace. We mourn his loss alongside his family, colleagues and the nation of Chad. His selfless service inspires everyone and we are proud to honor him,” said Lacroix.