The security forces in Algeria say Islamic militants have killed eight people and injured six others in a village in Bouira province, east of the capital, Algiers.

The attack brings to more than fifty the number of people who've been killed in the past week.

Correspondents say the militants traditionally step up their attacks before and during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, believing it to be an auspicious period for their jihad, or holy war, against the government.

This year Ramadan begins in the second half of December.

In separate incidents in Bouira province, Algerian newspapers also reported the killing of three policemen and a communal guard.