US pilots in Colombia gunfight

Pilots supplied by the United States to support anti-drug efforts in Colombia have been involved in a gunfight with rebels during a crop-spraying mission.

The Americans, who are contracted by the US State Department, were called in to rescue the crew of a police helicopter which was brought down by gunfire last weekend in southern Colombia.

They piloted helicopter gunships from which suppressing fire was aimed at guerrillas while the grounded crewmen were recovered.

The US supplies helicopters and other assistance for the fight against illegal drugs in Colombia, but it has said no American personnel would be involved. Correspondents say the incident is likely to fuel allegations by the rebels that the US is directing the anti-drugs offensive in violation of Colombian sovereignty.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service