South Sudanese rebels seized a strategic oil town last week, separating terrified residents by ethnicity before killing hundreds, the United Nations said.

At one mosque, more than 200 civilians were reportedly killed and 400 others wounded, according to the United Nations. It did not provide specific numbers.

The residents had sought shelter in churches, mosques and hospitals when the rebels raided Bentiu town, the world body said in a statement.

Before the attacks, some rebel commanders broadcast messages on local radio warning certain groups to leave town, it said.

The atrocities occurred on April 15 and 16.

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