Associated Press in Jakarta – At least six people were seriously injured in a gun battle between security forces and separatist rebels in the strife-torn Aceh province, witnesses said on Monday.

A local journalist said soldiers opened fire on a group of rebels in the town of Lhoksukon in north Aceh, about 1,750km northwest of Jakarta on Sunday.

The journalist, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution, said six people were injured in fighting that started after security forces set fire to several houses and a market place in the town.

During the clash, three reporters were arrested and beaten by the soldiers before having all their camera equipment confiscated, he said.

A military official in Lhoksukon, also speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the shoot-out and said there were no deaths.