The International Committee of the Red Cross is calling for respect for humanitarian workers in South Sudan.

ICRC says it is ‘shocked and dismayed’ by reports of the killing of at least six humanitarian workers from various non-governmental organizations in Maban County of Upper Nile State early this week.

The head of the ICRC delegation in South Sudan, Franz Rauchenstein, said the targeting of humanitarian workers in Bunj, the county capital of Maban, must stop.

“There has to be an environment in which humanitarian work can take place, so that aid can be brought to around 120,000 refugees in the area,” said Mr Rauchenstein in a statement.

Mr. Franz says if insecurity continues, humanitarian workers will not be able to provide basic services and assistance for the people who have little or no drinkable water, food or basic medical services.

“The ICRC is reminding those participating in the fighting that all civilians, including aid workers, should be respected and protected.”