Officials in Russia's restive North Caucasus republic of Daghestan say one militant was killed and a security officer was wounded in a shootout between unknown gunmen and security forces.

Reports say the gunmen opened fire on the troops during the early afternoon in Daghestan's Kizlyar district, wounding one of the officers.

A gun battle was continuing through the afternoon.

Daghestan, with a majority Muslim population, has become one of the most volatile republics in Russia's North Caucasus.

Islamic insurgents professing extremist views egularly attack officials, police, military personnel and moderate Muslims.

Based on reporting by ITAR-TASS and Interfax