Khartoum, March 9 (IANS): Tens of civilians were killed and scores injured when "uncontrolled groups" attacked Sudan's North Darfur state, media reported Sunday.

"The situation at the western and eastern parts of the state is very critical and necessitates the intervention of the central government to provide urgent assistance to people affected by the fighting," Xinhua quoted North Darfur Governor Osman Yousif Kibir as saying.

He added that "uncontrolled groups" are disturbing security and stability in the western part of the state.

But the governor denied there was a potential threat against El Fasher, the capital city of North Darfur State.

He also criticised the silence of the international community towards the rebels' crimes.

"The international community is standing aside and looking at the crimes of the rebels," Kibir said.

Violence in Sudan's Darfur region has escalated to unprecedented levels. Armed clashes between the Sudanese Army and rebel groups have claimed thousands of lives and displaced tens of thousands of people.