The UN said five humanitarian workers were killed and four injured when a John Dau Foundation convoy was ambushed on Monday in Duk County, Jonglei State. The convoy—clearly marked as humanitarian—was returning from a WFP-supported training. UN officials called for a prompt investigation and stressed the attack violates international humanitarian law. UNMISS reported more than 760 deaths between January and March and a sharp rise in conflict-related sexual violence.
Five Humanitarian Workers Killed in Ambush on Aid Convoy in South Sudan
United Nations peacekeepers stand near an airstrip in Akobo, South Sudan, in February 2026 [File: Florence Miettaux/AP Photo]
The United Nations has expressed deep sorrow after five humanitarian workers were killed and four others wounded when an aid convoy was ambushed on Monday in Duk County, Jonglei State, South Sudan.
What Happened
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the victims were travelling in a convoy operated by a local partner, the John Dau Foundation (JDF), when it was attacked between Payuel Payam and Pajut in Panyang Payam. The convoy was returning from a World Food Programme–supported training session.
“Four others were injured, and several civilians were also reportedly killed or injured,” Dujarric said, noting that colleagues confirmed the convoy was clearly marked as humanitarian.
Reactions and Condemnation
The UN joined resident and humanitarian coordinator Ramanathan Balakrishnan in strongly condemning the attack and called for a prompt investigation. Dujarric emphasized that attacks on humanitarian workers are unacceptable and violate international humanitarian law.
The John Dau Foundation described the incident as “the most grievous and sombre chapter” in its history and appealed for prayers, solidarity and support for the bereaved families.
Wider Context
UNMISS (the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan) released a report documenting that more than 760 people were killed between January and March — an 89% increase compared with the previous quarter — and recorded a sharp rise in conflict-related sexual violence during the same period. Since independence in 2011, South Sudan has suffered repeated deadly conflicts and one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.
Calls To Action
The UN urged a prompt, transparent investigation into the ambush and reiterated calls from Anita Kiki Gbeho, UNMISS head, for all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.
Key facts: five humanitarian staff killed, four injured, civilians also affected; convoy belonged to JDF and was returning from WFP-supported training; UN demands investigation amid rising violence across South Sudan.
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