16 NATO tankers torched in Balochistan

At least 16 NATO oil tankers were torched by unidentified attackers in Pakistan's Balochistan province, a media report said today.

At least 16 NATO oil tankers were torched by unidentified attackers in Pakistan's Balochistan province, a media report said today.

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The incident occurred on Friday night in the Mangoli area of Dera Murad Jamali city in which one of the drivers was injured, while the fire also engulfed a nearby hotel, The Express Tribune reported.

Sources said the attackers also fired gunshots and managed to escape after a crossfire with the police.

NATO tankers have been frequently attacked in Pakistan in the recent past. Scores of NATO supply vehicles have been destroyed in gun and arson attacks as militants have stepped up efforts to disrupt crucial supply routes.

Pakistan shut its northwestern border crossing to NATO supply vehicles Sep 30 for 11 days after a cross-border NATO helicopter assault killed two Pakistani soldiers.

The bulk of supplies and equipment required by foreign troops in Afghanistan is shipped through Pakistan, although US troops increasingly use alternative routes through central Asia.