At least 45 armed militants and eight security forces have been killed in firefight in different districts in northern Kunduz province, officials said on Sunday.
Abdul Wasay Basal, governor spokesperson, told Pajhwok Afghan News the firefight was still going on in Qala Zal districts. At least 29 insurgents and eight security forces were killed and scores of insurgents and 16 security personnel wounded in the gun battle, Basal added.
Basal said that another 16 insurgents were killed in Qala Zal district.
The spokesman mentioned that security forces retreated from some areas as per their strategic plan.
Malim Karim, a local resident, said Taliban militant controlled entire Goorteepa area, forcing hundreds of families to flee the area.
Karim added that Taliban militants besieged security forces for last three days while back up forces had not reached for their assistance.
The militants controlled the surrounding of Kunduz city and could attack any time.
Zabih Ullah Mujahid, Taliban spokesman, said Taliban captured 20 security check posts and killed and wounded scores of security forces in a gun battle.
