Two UN Peacekeepers Killed In Ambush In South Sudan, Seven Injured

Two Ethiopian peacekeepers serving with the United Nations were killed and seven others injured after a UN patrol came under attack in South Sudan’s Jonglei State on Monday.

The attack was carried out by unidentified gunmen, according to UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, who said the patrol appeared to have been deliberately targeted.

Those injured included three UN peacekeepers, two South Sudanese police officers and two civilian staff members.

Dujarric said the patrol was part of the UN’s regular efforts to help address persistent insecurity in the area, which has been affected by intercommunal violence, armed youth mobilisation and clashes involving government forces.

The UN has called for a prompt and thorough investigation into the attack and urged authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

Dujarric warned that attacks against UN peacekeepers could constitute war crimes under international law.

The latest incident brings to nine the number of UN peacekeepers killed in malicious acts worldwide since January 1, according to the UN.