According to local authorities in north-eastern Badakhshan province of Afghanistan, dozens of Afghan police officers were killed or injured and several others were kidnapped following an ambush by Taliban militants.
Provincial councilchief Mawlavi Zabiullah Atiq confirming the report said the incident took place late Wednesday in Wardooj district, leaving at least 23 police officers dead and 21 others wounded.
Mr. Atiq further added that Taliban militants kidnapped almost 24 other police officers with them.
District chief for Wardooj Dawlat Mohammad also confirmed the report, however, he did not disclsoe further information regarding the incident.
Taliban group claimed responsibility behind the incident.
Wardooj is among the most volatile regions in north-easter Badakhshan province where Taliban militants are openly operating. Afghan national security forces recently conducted an operation to clear the area from militants.
The operation “Hindukush” was launched by Afghan special forces earlier this month, and Afghan security officials recently announced that the operation ended in Wardooj district after the area was cleared.
