UN: Hundreds killed in South Sudan

(Vatican Radio) Between 400 and 500 people were reportedly killed in the latest round of violence in South Sudan. The deaths come as government forces loyal to President Salva Kiir are celebrating a victory against opposition forces, who attempted a coup this past weekend.

Two hospitals in South Sudan have reportedly recorded between 400 and 500 dead and up to 800 wounded, though officials have yet to verify the figures.

Most of the fighting happened in Juba, the country’s capital, from Sunday night into Monday morning. But sporadic gunfire continued into Tuesday evening.

The fighting was between two rival military groups. Government officials have said they have arrested 10 major political figures, including the former finance minister, in what they say was a foiled coup. Government forces are still searching for South Sudan’s former vice president, Riek Machar, accused of orchestrating the failed coup.

Kiir, dressed in military fatigues, said on television on Monday that forces loyal to the former vice president, whom he fired in July, had attacked an army base in a bid to seize power.

The U.N. Security Council issued a statement, saying it "urged all parties to immediately cease hostilities, exercise restraint and refrain from violence and other actions that could exacerbate tensions."

The United States has responded by urging its citizens to leave the country immediately; it said it is suspending normal operations at its embassy.

South Sudan which became an independent nation less than three years ago, is one of the poorest and least developed countries in Africa despite its rich oil reserves. It is also plagued by ethnic fighting.

Listen to the report by Laura Ieraci: