U.N. peacekeeper shot dead, 2 injured in Darfur attack

The United Nations said one peacekeeper was killed and two others injured in a Friday attack by unidentified gunmen in East Darfur.

The U.N. has joined with Sudan’s government to investigate the attack, The Associated Press reported.

Conflict has waged in the region for almost 10 years, and more than 300,000 have been killed. Rebels accuse government officials of neglect, abuse and discrimination, AP reported.

In 2007, the UNAMID African Union was established as a peacekeeping force to protect Darfur residents and to provide humanitarian assistance. Members also help with political disputes, AP said.

The peacekeeping force is comprised with about 16,500 troops and observers. Another 5,000 serve in police roles, AP reported.