7 killed in suspected attack on Yemeni checkpoint

At least seven security personnel were killed in an attack by suspected Al Qaeda fighters targeting forces in southern Yemen, a security source said.

Fighters launched an attack on a security checkpoint in Abyan province, manned by the Security Belt Forces, killing a senior commander and several of his aides. Clashes erupted afterwards between the two sides, which led to the killing of six fighters, the source added. A statement by the Security Belt Forces said the attack took place at dawn. After the clashes, the forces captured several fighters and chased after those escaping into the mountains surrounding the area, the statement added.

The Security Belt Forces are allied with the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC), which is backed by the UAE. They have taken control of Abyan province after pushing out the government forces last month. - dpa