Ban insists on free access in Syria chemical weapons probe

UN chief Ban Ki-moon insisted Monday that UN inspectors be granted unrestricted access to Syrian sites where chemical weapons were allegedly used, as the experts began their mission.

Inspectors, who are expected to visit three sites including Khan al-Assal near Aleppo, are due to be in Syria for 14 days, with the possibility for extension of the mission if there is mutual consent.

"In order to credibly establish the facts, the mission must have full access to the sites of the alleged incidents," Ban told reporters.

He said investigators needed to be able to collect samples as well as conduct interviews and examine witnesses, victims, and attending medical personnel. The team will also conduct autopsies.

Ban emphasized that the mission would not determine who had used chemical weapons but only whether chemical weapons were used. He said he hoped findings would help deter their use in the future.

"If confirmed, the use of chemical weapons by any side under any circumstances must be held accountable and would constitute an international crime," Ban affirmed.

Ban said the "government and all other entities within Syria" must ensure the safety of the UN team, which is composed of a dozen inspectors and is led by Swedish expert Ake Sellstrom.