Clashes spark displacement in South Kordofan’s Kauda, SPLM-N denies tribal targeting
August 2, 2026 (KAUDA) – A wave of displacement swept Kauda in South Kordofan State on Saturday following clashes between rebel groups and Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) forces, causing panic and sending civilians fleeing to nearby mountains and caves.
Disputes over border demarcation between the Shawaya and Otoro tribes in Kauda turned into armed clashes in March. The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) later categorized Otoro leaders who rejected the demarcation as rebels.
The movement acknowledged launching military operations in Otoro-inhabited areas on May 8, saying they targeted rebel elements.
Clashes broke out in the Kudi, Al-Irsaliyya, and Kajo neighbourhoods between armed Otoro groups and SPLA forces using heavy weaponry, local sources told Sudan Tribune.
Gunmen looted and vandalized headquarters of humanitarian organizations operating in the area and set fire to dozens of homes, forcing residents to flee in search of safety, sources said.
The group that rebelled against the SPLM-N stormed Kauda central prison on Wednesday, breaking open its doors to release more than 100 prisoners, including military personnel, sources confirmed. They also burned down local government headquarters in Heiban.
The SPLM-N denied targeting any tribe during the security events in Heiban County, emphasizing in a statement that its actions focus solely on individuals who rebelled against its authority.
The movement criticized organized media campaigns and rising online hate speech, accusing critics of trying to distort its image and ignite tribal conflicts.
It said the unrest began with an armed rebellion against official headquarters, involving attacks on civilians, house burnings, killings, and kidnappings.
The SPLM-N insisted it holds no animosity toward the Otoro tribe, adding that its operations strictly target rebels responsible for escalating the violence.
Forces are operating under the SPLA Law of 2018 to enforce the rule of law, restore stability, and protect civilians, the statement added.
The movement urged civilians to avoid areas with rebel presence and move to safe zones offering basic services.
It also rejected social media calls to expel the Otoro tribe from Delami County, calling them contrary to Nuba Mountains community values.
The Otoro rebel group largely seized control of Kauda in June and expelled local authorities, sources previously said.
The group set fire to homes of officials, including SPLM-N Secretary-General Ammar Amon Daldoum, who also serves as foreign minister in the administration aligned with the Rapid Support Forces.