QUETTA: Three security forces personnel were injured as militants attacked a security forces convoy on Thursday in the Harnai district of Balochistan, an official said.

A security official, who requested anonymity, told Dawn that the convoy was guarding gas fields in the area when it came under attack by miscreants.

"Forces quickly retaliated and the gunbattle continued for more than an hour," he added.

He said militants also suffered casualties but it could not be verified independently.

Harnai's Zarghoon area houses rich gas reservoirs and security personnel were patrolling in the area to guard gas installations when it came under attack.

More personnel were called in the area to bring the situation under control.

Both sides used heavy weapons during exchange of fire.

Panic prevailed in the area in the aftermath of the armed clash between forces and militants.