Kabul: Taliban militants attacked a police base in northern Afghanistan, killing 11, possibly with help from at least one of the policemen inside, local government officials said on Tuesday.
 
The militants first overran a checkpoint near the base late on Monday, and were apparently able to breach the compound with ease because a sympathetic policeman opened a door for them, Dawn reported.
 
These details were provided by Mabobullah Ghafari, a provincial councilman in Baghlan province where the attack took place.
 
Insider attacks have been steady throughout Afghanistan's 18-year conflict, with US and NATO troops most often targeted. But when Afghan security forces are targeted, the casualty rate is often much higher.
 
Zabihullah Mujahid, a Taliban spokesman, claimed responsibility for Monday's attack on the outskirts of Puli Khumri, Baghlan's provincial capital.
 
The Taliban have a strong presence in the province and frequently target Afghan security forces in and around the city.
 
The US and the Taliban are currently attempting to negotiate a reduction in hostilities or a ceasefire.