Kabul, 4 Nov. (AKI) - Five British soldiers have been shot dead in southern Afghanistan in what the British military has described as a "rogue" attack. The soldiers, three from the Grenadier Guards and two from the Royal Military Police, died in the Nad-e’Ali district of Helmand Province late Tuesday.

An investigation has been launched into the attack and the soldiers' families have been informed of the deaths.

Another three Afghan police officers were also killed and up to six others injured in the attack.

The soldiers had been stationed at the post for two weeks, with a detachment of Afghan police whom they had been training and mentoring.

Lt Col Wakefield, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: "It is with the deepest sadness I must inform you that five British soldiers were shot and killed yesterday in Nad-e'Ali District."

It appears he could have been involved in a dispute with his commander, but sources have pointed to a link with the Taliban.

The total number of British troops killed in Afghanistan since 2001 to 227.