SIX Algerian religious students were killed and one injured in an attack by Islamic militants in the village of El Hnenfa west of Algiers, security services said on Sunday. Witnesses said the six, aged from 24 to 32, had been shot at a monastery where they were studying the Koran and theology just outside the village. While it is not known who carried out the attack, the Armed Islamic Group, the GIA, under leader Antar Zouabri, is known to operate in the area. Around 60 people, including 30 security personnel and 15 militants, have been killed in attacks or clashes linked to extremist groups since the beginning of the month, according to press and witness reports. – AFP