Main image: Deminers getting ready for work in a minefield in Ukraine Photo: Sean Sutton/NPA
Russian forces killed a staff member of the international humanitarian organization Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) in Novopetrivka, part of the Vysokopillia community in Kherson region, and injured five other representatives of the organization.
The information was reported by the head of the Kherson Regional Military Administration, Oleksandr Prokudin.
It is noted that as a result of Russian shelling, a 24-year-old demining specialist sustained injuries incompatible with life. Initially, it was reported that three representatives of the organization had been wounded.
Later, Prokudin clarified that the number of injured humanitarian workers had increased to four, two of whom were in serious condition.All of the injured were hospitalized for further treatment. Later, the Kherson Regional Prosecutor’s Office reported that the number of injured had risen to five.
According to the investigation, around 1:00 p.m., Russian forces shelled an area near the village of Novopetrivka.
“Members of a non-governmental organization conducting humanitarian demining operations were within the strike zone. One man was killed, and five others were injured to varying degrees,” the statement said.
A pre-trial investigation has been launched into a war crime under Part 2 of Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.
“This is devastating news. My thoughts are with the families, loved ones and colleagues of those affected,” said Secretary General Raymond Johansen. “Our immediate priority is to support the injured and provide assistance to our colleagues in Ukraine,” Johansen added.
