17 policemen confirmed killed in clash with protesters in western Nepal

The death toll in the violent clash that erupted over the proposed federalism in the far western Nepal has reached to 20, local media reported.

At least 17 police personnel and three protesters were killed in the clash that took place in Tikapur of Kailali district on Monday afternoon.

Three protesters lost their lives after they defied the prohibitory order imposed by the district administration office.

The clash broke out after the irate protesters started pelting stones and wielding axes, knives, spears and sickles.

Protesters also reportedly burned some police officials alive.

Dozens of police personnel and protesters have sustained injuries in the violent outbreak. They are undergoing treatment at the local Tikapur hospital.

Security has been tightened in the area as the Chief District Officer (CDO) has deployed the Nepal Army to keep the situation calm.