Friday, 25 October, 2002, 21:40 GMT 22:40 UK

The Algerian news agency says suspected Islamic extremists have killed 21 people from the same family, including a three-month-old baby.

The attack took place in the north-western province of Chlef.

Five other people were reported to be in a serious condition with bullet wounds to the head.

The attack came in the early hours of Friday local time in a remote village about 125 miles (200 km) west of the capital, Algiers.

Security services sent to the area have launched an operation to track down those responsible.

The Algerian government says the Armed Islamic Group - or GIA - is known to be active in the area.

-- Anonymous, October 25, 2002