As fierce battle between Afghan Security and Defense Forces (ANDSF) and Taliban militants enter its third day in Baghlan-e-Marzaki district in the northern Baghlan province, military sources on the frontline Thursday claimed that security forces have repelled new attacks by the Taliban offshoots on the strategically important town which has witnessed major battles over the past few months. 

“At least 600 militants attacked Baghlan-e-Markazi district but their attack was pushed back (by security forces),” said Zabihullah, a police force member in Baghlan.

“The puppets of Pakistanis are here to capture our district but we are here and we will not allow them,” said Sayed Karim, a local police force member.

Afghan security officials on the battlefield have pledged to clear all areas of Baghlan-e-Markazi district which had been overruled by the militants.

There are reports indicating that ongoing conflicts between Afghan forces and the Taliban have left hundreds of civilians homeless.

Military officials have claimed that the Taliban deliberately tried to target civilian population during the battle.

“Large scale military operation has been conducted in Koh Chinar, Qaisarkhail and Tajikha villages,” said Shour Gul, the deputy minister of defense.

“The reinforcements have arrived and we are conducting the continuation of Alborz-9 Operation in Baghlan-e-Jadid area,” said Colonel Ziauddin, a commander of Shaheen Corps Headquarters.

It is said that the Taliban have managed to seize control of several villages in the district during several days of violence.