Nepal rebels attack town, no word on casualties

KATHMANDU, Apr 24 (Reuters) Hundreds of Maoist rebels stormed a town in eastern Nepal and fought a six-hour gun battle with security forces, a senior government official today said.

He said communication links had been cut with the town of Chautara, about 100 km east of the capital Kathmandu, and there was no word yet on casualties.

The attack comes as the country's main political parties continue major street protests against King Gyanendra, who sacked the government and took full powers in February 2005. The parties have entered a loose alliance with the Maoists against the king.

''It appears to be a pretty big attack. But we have no details,'' said the official, who declined to be named.

Reuters OM DB0704