U.N.: South Sudan death toll likely to exceed 272

UNITED NATIONS — The death toll from a recent outbreak of fighting in South Sudan is almost certain to climb above the 272 people, including 33 civilians, reported by the government, United Nations officials said Wednesday.

Peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous told the Security Council that government forces are obstructing the movement of U.N. personnel “every step of the way” making it hard to ascertain what has gone on since the fighting erupted between the government and rebel forces last week.

“I would believe that this is only the tip of the iceberg given alarming reports indicating over the last few days many civilians were barred from reaching safer ground,” he said, referring to the official death toll.

Ellen Margrethe Loj, who heads the U.N. peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, echoed Ladsous’ assessment.

“I know for a fact, because I’ve seen it with my own eyes, that I don’t think all the casualties and the bodies have been collected and a proper count has been done, if it ever will be,” Loj said, addressing reporters via videolink from Juba, the South Sudan capital.

Both officials said that while the cease-fire in Juba appears to be holding since it was declared Monday night, further clashes cannot be ruled out.

Ladsous said he was particularly worried by reports of government and rebel forces mobilizing near Malakal in the Upper Nile region and Leer in Unity state.