(Juba, 8 June 2021) The Humanitarian Coordinator ad interim in South Sudan, Matthew Hollingworth, has strongly condemned the killing of two aid workers in Yirol West, Lakes, and called for authorities and communities to protect humanitarian personnel as they deliver assistance to people across the country.
“I am shocked by the reports of yet another act of violence against humanitarians in South Sudan. I want to express our condolences to the family and colleagues of the aid workers who were killed. Humanitarians are working tirelessly to reach the most vulnerable people, including women, children and older persons with vital aid,” said Mr. Hollingworth.
On 7 June, two aid workers working for Doctors with Africa CUAMM were killed when their vehicle was ambushed in Yirol West, Lakes. The clearly marked humanitarian vehicle was part of a convoy returning from a health facility. According to initial reports, the attackers emerged from the bush and opened fired on the convoy.
“I call on the Government to strengthen law enforcement, investigate these crimes, and to bring the perpetrators swiftly to justice. Four aid workers have been killed in the last month alone. I fear that continued attacks on humanitarians and the consequent suspension of activities will have a serious impact on humanitarian operations in South Sudan,” Mr. Hollingworth concluded.
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.
Please find enclosed the link to the press release.
Note to editors
For the Humanitarian Coordinator’s previous statements on aid workers killed on 13 May and 23 May.
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Anthony Burke, Public Information Officer, +211 92 240 6014 and burkea@un.org
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