UN Says it Needs More Troops in Mali

Representative calls recent attacks a "wake-up call"

The United Nations has appealed for more troops and equipment for its peacekeeping force in Mali.

The UN force, which took over security duties in July, has less than half of its mandated strength of more than 12,000 military personnel.

Bert Koenders, the UN's special representative to Mali, said recent attacks had been a "wake-up call".

He said the force, known as Minusma, needed more resources in order to stabilise the north of the country.