Chinese security forces 'destroy' 28 people

Xinjiang is often tinged attacks in recent years. AFP

Chinese authorities 'destroy' 28 people allegedly responsible for the deadly attack at a coal mine in Xinjiang, state media said.



The operation lasted for 56 days and one person was detained, according to the Xinjiang Tianshan government Internet sites.

"After 56 days of fighting constantly, Xinjiang destroy terrorist gang directly under the command of foreign extremist groups. In addition to a surrender, 28 thugs destroyed," Xinjiang Daily said, according to Reuters news agency.

This is the first official report of the incident on September 18, which occurred in a coal mine in sogan, which killed 16 people.

Xinjiang, which is frequently hit by unrest, is a region where ethnic Uighur minority live.

China says 'foreign terrorists' were behind the violence in the region.

Hundreds of people have been killed in attacks over the past three years.

Uighurs, who are mostly Muslim, said Beijing repression of religion and their culture provoke violence.

But because China controls media access to Xinjiang strictly, it is difficult to verify reports circulating. (bbc)