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The United States said on Wednesday that it was "appalled" by fresh violence against women and children in theCentral African Republic (CAR), vowing continued support for international efforts to bring peace to the country.
"The United States is appalled by today's reports of the murder of innocent women and children outside of Bangui," State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said in a statement.
At least 12 people were killed and 30 others were injured on Monday in Boali, 95 km north of the capital city of Bangui, where a mainly Muslim community came under attack.
"This horrifying account is the latest in a string of reports that illustrate the deteriorating humanitarian and security situation in the Central African Republic that could lead to an escalation in violence and further atrocities," Harf said.
She said the United States is working with its partners to "find the swiftest and most effective vehicle for stabilizing the situation."
The CAR, a landlocked and mineral-rich country of 4.6 million people, has slipped into chaos since northern Seleka rebels seized Bangui and ousted President Francois Bozize in March, unleashing a wave of violence.
Seleka leader Michel Djotodia, installed as the transitional president, officially dissolved a loose coalition of rebel forces, but has been unable to stop clashes with self-defense militias, known as the "anti-balaka" or anti-machetes.
Washington offered 40 million U.S. dollars in aid last month to support a 2,500-strong regional peacekeeping force in the African nation.
Harf welcomed France's decision to reinforce its military presence in the CAR, saying Washington "remains committed to supporting the international community's efforts to find a solution that protect civilians, restores security, ensures greater humanitarian access, and puts CAR on a path back to democratic governance."
