Rescue operation continued as aftershocks hit northwest Xinjiang region in China after a 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck the area, killing at least nine people and injuring 23 others so far.



Officials said, the quake struck in the remote Taxkorgan County area of Kashgar Prefecture at a depth of 10 kilometres, collapsing about 180 houses in the lightly populated area.



The disaster has affected more than 12,000 people and about 9,200 people have been evacuated to safety.



More than 1,000 soldiers and policemen were rushed to the quake-stricken areas for rescue operation.



About 102 aftershocks were recorded within seven hours following the quake.