CPJ demands probe into killing of American journalist in South Sudan

[Elisabeth Janaina]

CPJ demands probe into killing of American journalist in South Sudan

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said it is deeply troubled
by reports that a South Sudanese army spokesman yesterday denied that
U.S. freelance reporter and photographer Christopher Allen, who was
killed while covering conflict in Kaya on August 26, was deserving of
civilian status.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, CPJ called for an independent
investigation into the circumstances surrounding Allen's death, and
urged authorities to respect all journalists' status as civilians.

The group further said South Sudan's army, a rebel spokesman, and the
U.S. Embassy in the capital Juba confirmed that Allen was killed
during fighting between government and opposition troops in the town
of Kaya.

CPJ pointed out that South Sudan army spokesman Lul Ruai Koang was
quoted as saying that journalists who enter the country with rebel
forces will not be protected.

"Anybody who comes attacking us with hostile forces will meet his
fate," Koang told journalists, according to AP.