UN Condemns Deadly Ambush Killing Five Humanitarian Workers in South Sudan

The United Nations expressed deep sorrow after five humanitarian workers were killed in a convoy ambush in South Sudan. The attack occurred on Monday in Duk County, within Jonglei State. A local partner organization was operating the vehicle when the ambush took place.

UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric addressed the press on Tuesday to confirm the death toll. He noted that four other individuals sustained injuries during the incident. Reports also indicate that several civilians were killed or wounded in the violence.

"We join our resident and humanitarian coordinator, Ramanathan Balakrishnan, in strongly condemning the attack," Dujarric stated. He emphasized that the convoy was clearly marked as humanitarian. The spokesperson demanded a prompt investigation into the assault.

Dujarric declared that attacks on humanitarian workers are unacceptable and violate international humanitarian law. He highlighted that since January, 29 humanitarian workers and contractors have been killed across the region.

The John Dau Foundation (JDF) released a statement on Facebook regarding the specific circumstances of the attack. Their convoy was traveling between Payuel Payam and Pajut in Panyang Payam. The vehicle was transporting staff returning from a World Food Programme-supported training session.

"While JDF has endured significant losses over the years, this incident represents the most grievous and sombre chapter in our organization's history," the statement read. The foundation called for prayers, solidarity, and support for the bereaved families and the entire JDF community.

In separate remarks, Dujarric discussed a new report from the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). The document documented that more than 760 people died between January and March. This figure represents an 89 percent increase compared to the previous quarter.

UNMISS also recorded a sharp rise in conflict-related sexual violence. Dujarric noted that Anita Kiki Gbeho, the special representative of the secretary-general and head of the mission, issued a call to all parties. She urged them to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.

Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced various deadly conflicts. These struggles have triggered one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.