KHARTOUM, Sudan: A Darfur rebel commander says his troops have fought with Sudanese government forces in northern Darfur and that the clashes killed at least five rebels.

Suleiman Marajan from the Sudan Liberation Army says the battle early Thursday in the Helf area lasted for three hours. He says 10 rebels were wounded.

He also claims government planes bombed an empty village, burning it to the ground.

The government did not immediately comment on the claim, which couldn't be independently verified.

The Helf area, controlled by the SLA, has been the site of previous clashes.

The U.N. has appealed for an end to the recent spate of violence in northern Darfur, which came after a Sudanese government offer of a cease-fire.