UN sending more troops, police to Haiti

UNITED NATIONS — The Security Council is sending 3,500 extra UN troops and police to Haiti to help maintain order and protect humanitarian convoys trying to reach earthquake victims.

The 15-member Security Council, "recognizing the dire circumstances and urgent need for a response," voted to endorse a request for reinforcements from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.

The resolution -- drafted by the United States -- says the UN mission in Haiti "will consist of a military component of up to 8,940 troops of all ranks and of a police component of up to 3,711 police."

China's UN Ambassador Zhang Yesui, who is chairing the council this month, said the extra troops and police would deploy for six months.

Source:AFP