SANAA, Yemen (AP) — Military officials say the death toll among government troops killed by al-Qaida militants in a weekend attack in southern Yemen has risen to 185.
The officials say the death toll rose Tuesday after more bodies were found in the desert outside the provincial capital of Abyan province, Zinjibar. The Sunday attack left at least 32 militants dead. Officials said that there were scores of wounded from both sides.
Medical officials in the area confirmed the latest death toll and said some of the bodies of soldiers recovered were mutilated or headless.
The death toll is believed to be the highest on record from battles fought by the army against al-Qaida militants.
Officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the press.
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