Five killed in Afghanistan clash

Five people, including three security personnel and two Taliban militants, were killed Thursday in a clash in Saripul province in Afghanistan, police said.

"The clash which began in the wee hours of Thursday and lasted for several hours, claimed the lives of three Afghan soldiers and two Taliban rebels," deputy to provincial police chief, Sakhi Dad Haidari, told Xinhua.

Firing erupted in Kohistanat district of Saripul province when a group of Taliban militants ambushed a convoy of security personnel. The forces returned fire and the exchange lasted for several hours.

Twelve people, including one civilian, sustained injuries, the official added.