Notorious Talib commander killed in Baghlan offensive

PUL-I-KHUMRI (Pajhwok): A notorious Taliban commander has been killed during a clearing operation in the Baghlan-e-Markazi district of northern Baghlan province, officials said on Thursday.

A three-day operation involving all security organs was conducted in Baghlan-i-Markazi, district chief Gauhar Khan Baburi told Pajhwok Afghan News.

Baburi claimed Himmat Khail, Shafi Khail, Hussein Khail, Zaman Khail and Mughala localities had been cleared of insurgents. The aim was to secure Baghlan-Mazar and Baghlan-Kunduz highways.

Residents felt relieved after the operations, saying they could come out of homes freely after three days of clashes.

Gulabuddin, a local elder, said: “During the last three days, we had been trapped in crossfire. Today the fighting is over and security forces have stabilised the area.”

He claimed Taliban were extorting money and food from residents. The man urged the government to take concrete measures to stop Taliban’s return.

hg/mud