Sudan's government says its forces have killed a prominent rebel leader in the Darfur region.

The state-run Sudan News Agency says the army has announced the death of Khalil Ibrahim, leader of the rebel Justice and Equality Movement.

The report says Ibrahim was killed in fighting Sunday near Wad Banda in North Kordofan state. Sudanese news outlets say clashes broke out in the state Friday.

There has been no comment on the report from the rebel group.

Darfur rebel groups launched an uprising against the government in 2003, accusing Khartoum of neglecting their region.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes against civilians in the region.