Dozens of Taliban killed in Kandahar operation, clash

KANDAHAR CITY (Pajhwok): Thirty-four Taliban insurgents have been killed and 37 others injured in a security operation and a clash in Maiwand and Mianshin districts of southern Kandahar province, an official said on Sunday.

Police spokesperson Jamal Nasir told Pajhwok Afghan News 28 militants were killed and 30 others injured during an operation in the Mandozai and Karez localities of Maiwand district on Saturday.

He said the fighters had planted several landmines in the area and the security forces had defused at least 50 of the explosive devices so far.

Police chief Brig. Gen. Tadin Khan visited the areas and inspected the operation. He said hundreds of rebels sneaked into Maiwand from Helmand province and planned to overrun Panjwaee, Zherai and Maiwand districts before reaching Kandahar City.

But the security forces thwarted the fighters’ attempt and pushed them back from 10 villages of Maiwand. The militants suffered huge losses, he claimed.

Separately, the Taliban attacked security check-posts in Mianshin district on Saturday night. Gen. Tadin Khan said six Taliban were killed and seven others injured as the security forces repulsed the attack.

The Taliban have not yet spoken about the incidents.

nh/mud