Former VP Machar says that his forces are in control of the oil-producing region of the country although details of exactly what are held by who is not clear.
In Unity State, the commander of the 4th Division, James Koang Chuol claims to have deposed the governor and to have assumed the position of governor himself.
He also said that his forces are no longer loyal to President Salva Kiir.
Information from the ground indicates that fighters loyal to deposed Unity State governor Joseph Nguen Monytuel, who is from Mayom County, have clashed with soldiers loyal to Division 4 commander James Koang Chuol, who is from Leer County.
This is the first reported incident of Nuer versus Nuer fighting in Unity State since the crisis began.
UNMISS continues to withdraw non-essential UN staff and many NGO staff from threatened areas.
Simultaneously, UNMISS announced today that it is planning to reinforce it's military presence in Bor, Pariang and Bentiu.
Riek Machar has insisted that key figures arrested after the alleged coup attempt be released and sent to another country before he will participate in talks aimed at resolving the present crisis.
It is reported that large numbers of Nuer youth and Dinka SPLA are converging on Yida from south and north at this time.
It is assumed that this will result in clashes.
Several oil workers believed to be from the Moldova based company Ascom were detained in Adok Port, Leer County, Unity State yesterday as well.