Sudanese rebels say they are holding nearly 30 Chinese workers following a battle with Sudan's army in the state of South Kordofan, which borders newly independent South Sudan.

A rebel spokesman says 29 Chinese are being held for their own safety and are in good health.

The rebels say they captured the Chinese workers on Saturday after a battle with Sudanese government troops.

The two sides have been fighting since June.

The Sudanese army has not commented on the reported incident.