The United Nations World Food Programme has condemned the recent attack on a humanitarian convoy that left at least three people dead in Jonglei State.
On 24 March, a commercial convoy of 44 trucks carrying WFP food assistance reportedly came under attack from armed gunmen between Gadiang and Yuai in Jonglei State.
This is the third ambush in Jonglei State in the past four months.
The ambush carried out by unidentified armed men also left one person injured.
In a statement seen by Eye Radio over the weekend, WFP Acting Country Director, Adeyinka Badejo described the event as unacceptable.
“These continued attacks and looting only serve to make humanitarian work increasingly challenging and sabotage life-saving food assistance destined for vulnerable communities”, Adeyinka Badejo said.
Badejo stated that continuous attacks on their convoy also threatens suspension of support to those in need.
“Further attacks on humanitarian convoys will put humanitarian assistance at risk where WFP will be forced to suspend its food assistance in greater Jonglei until there is a conducive environment for humanitarians in the area.”
WFP also reiterate calls on the government to investigate each incident where humanitarian workers and cargo have been targeted, including one in March 2022 and one in December 2021.
WFP believes bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring respect for humanitarian operations will ensure all agencies the ability to effectively assist the people of South Sudan.