JUBA – The United States Embassy in South Sudan has condemned the looting of humanitarian supplies destined for vulnerable populations in the Fangak County, Jonglei State, by alleged South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) troops.
In a strongly-worded statement, the Embassy slammed what it described as continued predation that is directed against those seeking to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance to South Sudanese people in need.
It said SSPDF personnel raided a boat carrying World Food Programme (WFP) commodities in New Fangak on September 7, stealing food and supplies meant for South Sudanese civilians facing food insecurity.
“While the stolen goods were replaced on September 20, this reflects a worsening pattern of looting and rent-seeking directed against assistance activities in South Sudan by armed groups and individuals in positions of authority across the country,” it stressed.
The diplomatic mission added that the incident is particularly shocking because the individuals involved are entrusted with their country’s security.
“We call upon South Sudan’s leaders, at all levels, to prevent such actions and to be a partner to those – including international donors – seeking to help the South Sudanese people. We urge the transitional government to create conditions that will end the country’s humanitarian crisis.”
The mission said it was increasingly concerned about the inability of implementing partners delivering humanitarian assistance to reach conflict-affected populations in Upper Nile State, due to humanitarian access denials by transitional government officials in areas which face a possible risk of famine.
It added that urgent humanitarian intervention is required in these areas, and government authorities must facilitate access.
“We call on South Sudan’s leaders to immediately eliminate the unacceptably high costs and risks that threaten delivery of aid, ensure humanitarian access, and start using public revenue to address public needs.”
“This includes supporting humanitarian crisis response efforts. It also includes paying salaries to public civilian employees and security services.”
