Afghanistan militants attack Indian consulate in Mazar-e-Sherif: Gunfire and explosions heard

The exact target of the attack was not immediately clear

File image: Afghan security forces secure a building in the embassy district of Kabul (Getty Images)

An explosion has been heard and gunmen have reportedly opened fire on the Indian consulate in the Afghan city of Mazar-e-Sherif.

A local governor was quoted as saying two blasts were heard as gunmen attempted to enter the consular compound.

Speaking to the AFP news agency, an Indian official apparently talking from inside the building said fighting continued outside.

The incident came as Indian security forces battled into Sunday evening to secure an air base near its boarder with Pakistan that was overrun by militants disguised as soldiers.

The Pathankot attack saw seven military personnel killed and another 20 wounded, and as night fell it was clear that not all the militants had been apprehended or killed.

According to the BBC, attacks on Indian diplomatic buildings are not uncommon in Afghanistan, with four attacks reported on consulates and the Kabul embassy between 2008 and 2014.