UN condemns killing of 2 aid workers in South Sudan

UN condemns killing of 2 aid workers in South Sudan

JUBA, June 8 (Xinhua) — The United Nations humanitarian agency on Tuesday condemned the killing of two aid workers in South Sudan’s Yirol West, Lakes State.

Matthew Hollingworth, humanitarian coordinator ad interim in South Sudan called for authorities and communities to protect humanitarian personnel as they deliver assistance to people across the country.

Two aid workers working for Doctors with Africa CUAMM were killed when their vehicle was ambushed in Yirol West on Monday.

Hollingworth said the clearly marked humanitarian vehicle was part of a convoy returning from a health facility when the attackers reportedly emerged from the bush and opened fire on the convoy.

“I am shocked by the reports of yet another act of violence against humanitarians in South Sudan,” he said in a statement issued in Juba, expressing the UN condolences to the family and colleagues of the aid workers who were killed.

Hollingworth said humanitarians are working tirelessly to reach the most vulnerable people, including women, children and older persons with vital aid.

Hollingworth called on the government to strengthen law enforcement, investigate these crimes, and bring the perpetrators swiftly to justice.

Four aid workers have been killed in the last month alone, the UN said.

“I fear that continued attacks on humanitarians and the consequent suspension of activities will have a serious impact on humanitarian operations in South Sudan,” he said.

According to the UN, a total of 128 humanitarians, mostly South Sudanese, have lost their lives while providing humanitarian assistance to people since the conflict broke out in 2013. Enditem

XINHUANET.com