Mexican army kills 5 attackers in northern town

MONTERREY, Mexico – MONTERREY, Mexico (AP) — The Mexican army says soldiers killed five men in a shootout with assailants near the northern city of Monterrey.

The Defense Department says the soldiers came under fire from gunmen in the township of Juarez on Saturday.

A statement issued Sunday also alleges that police tried to interfere with the army during the confrontation.

Six officers were detained on suspicion of being involved in the attack. They were turned over to civilian authorities.

Drug cartels are known to operate in the area, and many members of local police forces are suspected of aiding the gangs.