The UN has condemned the killing of two peacekeepers in an ambush in South Sudan’s Jonglei State.
“The Secretary-General (Antonio Guterres) strongly condemns this attack in no uncertain terms,” spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters on Monday.
He confirmed that the two peacekeepers killed were Ethiopian nationals. Seven others were injured, including three UN peacekeepers, two South Sudanese police officers and two civilian staff members.
Guterres extended his condolences to the families of the fallen peacekeepers and to the people and government of Ethiopia, Dujarric said, adding that the UN chief wished all those injured a speedy recovery.
Dujarric did not specify who was responsible for the attack but said “armed gunmen” attacked the unit while it was conducting a regular patrol to address local insecurity.
Asked about the nature of the incident, Dujarric said available information indicated that the peacekeepers appeared to have been intentionally targeted.
He noted that the incident brought the number of peacekeepers killed in “malicious acts” since January 1 to nine.
The UN mission deployed a quick reaction force to secure the area and assist in the emergency response.
Dujarric emphasised that attacks on UN personnel may constitute war crimes under international law.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, head of the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), called for a prompt investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
“Such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable,” she said.
