The attack took place in the Mattani area on the outskirts of Peshawar.

"Dozens of militants attacked the checkpost, killing four policemen including senior official Khushid Khan and two paramilitary FC (Frontier Constabulary) men," local police official Nasim Hayat told AFP.

The militants set fire to the checkpost and three police vehicles, before fleeing, Hayat said.

Another police official, Sher Muhammad, who was wounded in the attack, confirmed the incident and casualties.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.