Two members of Oxfam staff were tragically killed in an armed robbery yesterday in Motot, a town in Jonglei State, South Sudan. The victims, Gatdet Nhial Jock and Manyal Gatjek Kueth, were working as security guards at an Oxfam food distribution center when they were attacked. Both men were fatally wounded by gunshots during the incident.
In a statement, Oxfam expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their colleagues and condemned the attack. Felix Koske, Oxfam’s Acting Country Director in South Sudan, said:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two valued colleagues. Our hearts go out to their families during this incredibly difficult time. It is essential that aid workers and the communities they serve are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear for their safety. We strongly condemn this horrific attack.”
Oxfam has reiterated its commitment to the safety and well-being of its staff and has called for accountability and an end to violence against humanitarian workers.