Mine attack kills 12 Indian policemen

Twelve policemen have been killed in eastern India when suspected communist rebels detonated a mine under their vehicle.

The attack took place in hilly terrain in Rohtas 125 miles west of Patna, the capital of Bihar state, said Ritu Raj, the deputy inspector-general of police.

More than 6,000 people have been killed since the rebels, inspired by Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong, began fighting in 1981.

They mostly target rich landowners and police, accusing them of colluding in the exploitation of farmers and rural labourers.