3 Jawzjan police killed in predawn firefight with Taliban

SHIBRGHAN (Pajhwok): Three Afghan National Police (ANP) personnel and a militant were killed in a predawn a clash in the Aqcha district of northern Jawzjan province, an official said Monday.

The firefight was triggered by a militant attack on a security post at midnight, provincial police chief Brig. Gen. Faqir Mohammad Jawzjani told Pajhwok Afghan News.

He said three policemen and a rebel were killed during the clash. The attackers managed to flee after reinforcements arrived at the site.

A resident of the area, Asadullah, said the fire exchange lasted until 4am. He added civilians had suffered no casualties in the incident.

But Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed killing five policemen and seizing their weapons. He also confirmed the death of one rebel and injuries to a second.

mds/mud