15 militants killed in Uruzgan operation

Monitoring Desk

TIRINKOT: At least 15 militants have been killed during an operation by Afghan forces on the outskirts of the capital of central Uruzgan province, an official said on Thursday.

Col. Rahmat Shah Qimati, commander of the 205th Atal Military Corps, told Pajhwok Afghan News the operation — supported by coalition aircraft — was launched two days ago.

He said the Taliban centre located in Hazaragi area was captured as a result of the offensive, which left 15 militants dead, including their commanders. Several other fighters were wounded.

The operation would continue until all areas of the provincial capital and the Tirinkot-Chori road were cleared of insurgents, the commander added.

Deputy police chief Col. Abdul Qawi Omari alleged the Taliban were using civilian houses as trenches, causing the operation to proceed slowly. The rebels had planted bombs on roads and so far three soldiers had suffered casualties, he said. The operation features regular police, army and public order police personnel.

The security situation in and around Tirinkot has been volatile for the past two years and the guerrillas have captured many areas. Thousands of families have been displaced their areas.