WFP condemns killing of 3 workers in South Sudan

The World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday it was horrified to learn that three workers contracted as porters by WFP's office in Wau, South Sudan, were killed during violence that wracked the city earlier this week.

The three men -- Daniel James, Ecsa Tearp and Ali Elario, all citizens of South Sudan -- appear to have been killed on Monday as they tried to make their way to a WFP warehouse, where they worked as porters. Two died of machete wounds and the third was shot.

"We are outraged and heartbroken by the deaths of our colleagues, who worked every day to help provide life-saving food to millions of their fellow countrymen," a WFP statement quoted WFP country director Joyce Luma as saying.

"Our sympathies and condolences are with their families. Their dedication will not be forgotten, and we call on the South Sudanese authorities to hold those responsible for this unspeakable violence accountable for their actions," Luma added.

The Rome-based UN food agency also said it learned of the workers' deaths on Thursday from the company that employed them, which is contracted by WFP to provide loading and unloading services at the Wau warehouse.

WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide, delivering food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. Each year, WFP assists some 80 million people in around 80 countries. Enditem