Phone networks in North Darfur state are down following heavy fighting north of the capital El Fashir.

While the cause of the shutdown is unknown, residents from around Darfur and in Chad’s refugee camps have been unable to reach family and friends in the war-torn state.

The fighting took place around Mallit, around 60 kilometers north of El Fashir. According to reports, forces from the rebel Sudan Liberation Army faction led by Minni Minnawi attacked the government-controlled town around 5pm on Thursday, March 13. While the result of the attack is unclear, residents in other parts of Darfur say the phone networks shut down later that night.

Some residents in El Fashir reported increased troop movement yesterday as word of the fighting in Mallit spread. The residents say the North Darfur capital is bracing for an attack, while others report confusion and indiscipline among government forces as tensions have risen.