The SPLA-North rebel group announced Sunday they captured Karkarai area in Um Durein of Sudan's South Kordofan state.

Clashes between the rebels and the Sudan Armed Forces have spiked in recent weeks.

SPLA-N spokesperson Arnu Ngutulu Lodi said in a press statement yesterday that their forces entered Karkarai on Sunday evening.

He said they also repulsed an attack by SAF at Angulu area.

Radio Tamazuj was unable to contact SAF for a comment or indepentedly verify Arnu's claims.

Sudan's Blue Nile and South Kordofan states have witnessed many battles recently between government and rebels, with each party claiming victory over the other.