Hilde F. Johnson, Special Representative of the Secretary-General in South Sudan, condemns in the strongest terms the killing today of five peacekeepers and seven civilians working with UNMISS in an ambush by unidentified assailants near the settlement of Gumuruk, Jonglei State. At least nine additional peacekeepers and civilians were injured in the attack and some remain unaccounted for.
Ms. Johnson expresses her deepest condolences to the families of all the peacekeepers, colleagues and civilians killed in the attack.
UNMISS peacekeepers frequently patrol the area as part of an effort to provide protection to civilians, as well as providing armed escorts to humanitarian aid convoys.
"This attack will not deter UNMISS and its peacekeepers from working to protect vulnerable communities in South Sudan," said Ms. Johnson, "UNMISS is determined to continue its work in supporting authorities ensure peace."