Clashes within the Sudan People’s Liberation Army spread beyond the capital Juba to bases in at least two other areas, sources said Tuesday.
Fighting broke out in Pibor between Dinka and Nuer soldiers, causing an unknown number of casualties.
In the course of events Lou Nuer soldiers belonging to the SPLA force in the area were expelled from Pibor, a local priest told Radio Tamazuj.
The Lou Nuer soldiers are reported to have gone off to join another battalion in Gumuruk, about 32 kilometers away from Pibor.
Internal divisions in SPLA in this area would potentially affect the ability of the government to battle the David Yau Yau militia, which is active in eastern Jonglei State.
Similar clashes were reported at the 2nd Division Headquarters at Mogiri, which lies on the Bor-Juba road about 10 miles from the capital.
Although details are unconfirmed, some casualties are reported including an officer at the rank of captain.