Lashkargah: Casualties as Afghan forces, Taliban clash

LASHKARGAH (Pajhwok): Afghan forces and Taliban militants clashed overnight in the capital of southern Helmand province, with each side claiming to have inflicted casualties on the other.

Lt. Col. Mohammad Rassoul Zazai, spokesman for the 215^th Maiwand Military Corps, told Pajhwok Afghan News the clash took place in Bolan area of Lashkargah on Sunday night.

Several militants were killed and wounded during the clash and the Afghan forces escaped unhurt, the official said.

However, a police official, who wished not to be identified, said three Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers were killed and two others wounded during the clash.

Three militants were also killed and a number of others wounded, the source added.

Governor’s spokesman, Omar Zwak, confirmed the clash but said nothing about casualties.

A Taliban spokesman, Qari Yousuf Ahmadi, claimed 14 ANA soldiers were killed and two security posts captured by Taliban in Bolan.

Currently six districts of Helmand are under Taliban control. Except centers, Taliban militants hold sway in other areas of all districts.

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