275 people killed in South Sudan fighting

South Sudan: At least 275 people have been killed in fighting between government and rebel forces in South Sudan, said officials from both sides.

Governor of Jonglei Phillip Aguer said rebels attacked the army barracks in the northeast town of Pajut on August 19 adding that at least 242 opposition and 23 government soldiers had been killed and 10 civilians were also killed in the crossfire.

Rebel spokesman James Gatdet, saaid forces loyal to the government had launched the offensive and that more than 300 soldiers and 30 rebels were killed.

Reports of the death emerged after Sudan on Tuesday announced that rebel leader Riek Machar was in the country for "urgent medical attention.''