Save the Children Suspends Operations in Walgak, Akobo West Amid Vehicle Thefts
The Save the Children South Sudan has announced the suspension of its activities in Walgak, Akobo West, following two disturbing incidents involving the theft of its humanitarian vehicles.
The organization confirmed that it experienced two separate incidents where its clearly marked humanitarian vehicles were unlawfully taken. In the first incident earlier this year, three vehicles were seized without consent but were later returned after engagement with relevant stakeholders. However, more recently, two additional vehicles were taken and remain unrecovered.
”Fortunately, no Save the Children staff were harmed in either incident,” a spokesperson stated. “However, the loss of these vehicles has severely constrained our ability to deliver life-saving assistance to children and communities in need.”
Save the Children emphasized the importance of safe and reliable access to essential assets for effective humanitarian work. “The taking of humanitarian assets by any party undermines our principles of neutrality and independence and hampers our ability to reach the most vulnerable,” the spokesperson added.
In response to these events, Save the Children has temporarily suspended its activities in Walgak. The organization is seeking assurances that its operations, staff, and assets will be respected to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
”We remain committed to the people of Akobo and are ready to resume our assistance as soon as conditions allow,” the statement concluded.
The organization reaffirmed its dedication to delivering aid and called on all parties to respect humanitarian principles to ensure the safety and well-being of those in need.
