Attack within Afghan National Security Agency, 16 Dead

A gun attack on the Afghan National Security Agency left 16 people dead.

Afghan officials say four national intelligence agency operatives shot 16 of their colleagues dead before leaving the scene to join Taliban rebels in the Helmand province.

The attack was carried out in an facility belonging to the National Directorate for Security in the Garisk district, as sources of security facilities announced today.

Omar Zawak, the local government's spokesman, confirmed the incident, saying Taliban had attacked the security centre from outside, while attacks by four operatives were being carried out in domestic areas, resulting in a firearm battle between extremists and security guards.

Zawak said both sides suffered serious casualties, but without giving further details.

The spokesman said there were large numbers killed on both sides, but without providing concrete figures.