The Female Journalists Network (FJN) has expressed grief over the killing of veteran journalist Veronica Gordon, who was reportedly killed in an ambush by unidentified gunmen along the Lui–Mundri Road in Mundri East, Western Equatoria State, on Thursday.

In a statement on Friday, FJN condemned the attack and extended its deepest condolences to her family, colleagues, friends and the entire journalism community.

“The killing of a journalist is not only a devastating loss to their loved ones and colleagues, but also a serious concern for press freedom, freedom of expression, and the safety of media,” the statement reads.

FJN appealed to relevant authorities to swiftly investigate the incident and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. It also urged them to take strong measures to protect journalists and other civilians from attacks and insecurity.

It added that the organisation was committed to creating a safe environment for female journalists in South Sudan.

FJN reaffirmed that journalists must be able to carry out their professional duties without fear of violence, intimidation or threats to their lives, while wishing Mrs Gordon eternal peace.

Ms Gordon was a South Sudanese broadcast journalist and human rights activist. She also co-founded the Association of Media Women in South Sudan (AMWISS), where she became the first female executive board member in 2014.