The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Sudan and Head of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission (UNITAMS) Mr. Volker Perthes strongly condemned attack on UN staff and humanitarian assets in Darfur.
Three employees from the World Food Programme (WFP) were killed in clashes that erupted in Kabkabiya, North Darfur on 15 April while carrying out their duties.
“My deepest condolences are with their families”.
I also am extremely appalled by reports of projectiles hitting UN and other humanitarian premises, as well as reports of looting of UN and other humanitarian premises in several locations in Darfur. These recurring acts of violence disrupt the delivery of life-saving assistance and must end.
The safety and security of staff and contractors is paramount, and when incidents like this occur it is women, men, and children in desperate need of assistance who suffer the most.
I urge all parties to respect their international obligations, including to ensure the safety and security of UN and all humanitarian personnel and respect the integrity of premises and assets.
I reiterate: Civilians and humanitarian aid workers are “Not A Target”.
