GARDEZ (Pajhwok): A month long fierce fight between Afghan security forces and Taliban might lead to fall of Samakni district in southeastern Paktia province to militants, province council member warned on Tuesday.
Taj Mohammad Mangal, provincial council member, told Pajhwok Afghan News hundreds of Taliban had influx into Samkani district which could fall to Taliban.
A fierce gun battle has been underway in Lawarra area, he said, adding that civilians, security forces and Taliban militants suffered scores of casualties but he has no exact figure into casualties.
The month-long clashes forced hundreds of families to migrate to safer places, Mangal informed.
Haji Sardar, a local edler, said the warring parties were using heavy and small weapons against each other positions, which created a sense of insecurity among residents.
Maj. Gen. Zalmai Orykhail, provincial police chief, confirmed the firefight between Taliban and security forces and said: “Taliban have suffered heavy casualties in the battle and we would fight according to our strategy.”
He rejected the notion that the district could fall to Taliban and said that militants had been pushed back.
Zabihullah Mujahid, Taliban spokesman, claimed inflicting heavy casualties on security forces in the Samakani district fight.
