"The use of children and adolescents by ‘Shining Path’ is a violation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child – ratified by Peru in 1990 – and places them in a state of extreme vulnerability that affects their emotional, social, cognitive and physical development," Unicef said in a statement earlier this week.

Unicef said it was imperative to take the necessary measures to aid these children.

"Given the recent allegations about the existence of children associated with illegal groups in Peru, Unicef rejects the direct or indirect, forced or voluntary participation of children and adolescents in any situation of armed violence."

The organization said it would support Peru in the care and protection of children that partook in armed conflicts.

The UN body also expressed concern about the photographs and videos that are circulating about the ‘child soldiers’ urging the media to "protect their identity."

(END) INT/EEP