Clashes broke out near Kauda in South Kordofan early Tuesday, leaving an unknown number of casualties as fighting spread across surrounding villages, according to witnesses.
Residents said the violence began around 7:00 AM in Siliri, about five kilometres east of Kauda, before moving towards Durdur to the southwest.
Witnesses reported sustained gunfire echoing through the hills, triggering panic among civilians, though the exact number of casualties was not immediately confirmed.
The fighting involved groups linked to the SPLA, pointing to rising instability in an area already affected by fragile alliances and shifting loyalties.
The latest violence follows a series of recent incidents, including a 3 May attack on Kerendi village near Kauda that left people dead and homes destroyed.
Witnesses said that assault also damaged a religious site, highlighting the growing toll of the conflict on civilians and local infrastructure.
In March, more than 20 people were killed in clashes in the Dabi area, driven by disputes over contested boundaries and local territorial claims.
The repeated outbreaks of violence underscore deepening divisions within areas controlled by the SPLM-N, where tensions remain high despite a fragile security situation.
Analysts warn the continued clashes could further destabilise South Kordofan, where humanitarian conditions are already worsening under prolonged conflict.
For residents, each new round of fighting deepens uncertainty, as communities face ongoing fear, loss, and the constant risk of renewed violence.
