UNPROFOR CONCERNED AT CONTINUATION OF BLOCKADE

ZAGREB, July 7 (Hina) - UNPROFOR has recorded further blockades of checkpoints and is particularly concerned at the situation in Sector East, where all checkpoints have been closed for several days now, UNPROFOR deputy spokesman Paul Risley told a news conference on Thursday. He added that UNPROFOR personnel had observed Croatian police and authorities extending active assistance to the protesters by providing means of transport, shelter, food and water. UNPROFOR and UNHCR convoys carrying supplies for the UNPROFOR personnel and humanitarian aid have been blocked by protesters, so UNPROFOR is considering other means of delivering supplies to the personnel, said Risley. Akashi is very concerned at the continuation of restrictions of UNPROFOR's movements in the UNPAs and considers the present situation wholly unacceptable, Risley said, echoing Akashi's request to the Croatian Government to fulfill its commitment not to allow the refugees to restrict UNPROFOR's movements. Akashi protested at the highest level against these blockades and called on the Croatian Government to take immediate steps to resolve this situation, Risley said. Asked about the situation in the Bihac area, Risley said the fighting continued, and the UNPROFOR base in Bihac was encircled this morning by Bosnian army forces under the pretext of protecting the safety of UNPROFOR personnel. We find it unacceptable that guns are pointed at UNPROFOR personnel, Risley said, adding that negotiations were under way. 071644 MET jul 94