Foreign embassies and the European Union (EU) have strongly condemned a recent attack on humanitarian workers employed by the John Dau Foundation in Duk County, Jonglei State, South Sudan, which left five aid workers dead.
In a joint statement on Wednesday, the embassies of Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, alongside the EU, expressed condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of those killed.
“Those responsible for this attack must be held accountable. All parties have to respect and protect humanitarian personnel and assets. Humanitarian workers must never be targets,” the statement reads.
According to the Jon Dau Foundation, the incident occurred on Monday when a marked JDF vehicle was ambushed on the route between Payuel Payam and Pajut of Panyang Payam in Duk County. Several civilians were also killed and injured during the attack.
“The convoy was transporting staff returning from a World Food Programme (WFP) supported GFD session when the attack transpired. This calculated act of violence has resulted in the tragic loss of five dedicated JDF employees,” the Foundation said.
“Additionally, two staff members and a driver sustained serious injuries. We also mourn the loss and injury of several civilians caught in this ruthless assault. While JDF has endured significant losses over the years, this incident represents the most grievous and sombre chapter in our organisation's history.”
According to the United Nations (UN), the incident raises the total number of humanitarian workers and contractors killed in South Sudan this year to 29, highlighting the increasing risks they face while providing life-saving aid.
“Humanitarian workers dedicate their lives to saving others and reaching people in desperate need. They must never be a target,” said UN Humanitarian Coordinator Ramanathan Balakrishnan, who called for a prompt, impartial investigation and for those responsible to be brought to justice.
The attack follows recent warnings from the UN peacekeeping mission, UNMISS, about escalating violence in the country.
A report released by the mission on Tuesday said more than 760 civilians were killed between January and March, marking an 89 per cent rise compared to the previous quarter, while incidents of conflict-related sexual violence also increased significantly.
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