United Nations, August 19 (RHC)-- In South Sudan, the U.N. is launching an investigation into allegations that U.N. peacekeepers did not attempt to prevent multiple cases of abuse and sexual violence against civilians.

Last month, troops fighting on behalf of South Sudanese President Salva Kiir went on a nearly four-hour rampage through a hotel compound frequented by foreign aid workers.

Witnesses say civilians were gang-raped and a journalist was executed in the attack.  Several witnesses told the Associated Press that U.N. peacekeepers stationed nearby did nothing to stop the violence despite pleas for assistance from those inside the compound.