Security forces have advanced at least six kilometers in their military operation against the Taliban on the outskirts of Lashkargah city, Helmand local officials said on Tuesday.

The military operation was launched two days ago and security forces have managed to clear a number of areas on the outskirts of the city. 

“Security forces including the Afghan National Army, the Afghan National Police and the National Directorate of Security operatives have started a military operation to clear Lashkargah city of insurgents. We have ordered our forces to prevent civilian casualties during their mission,” said Brigadier General Ghani Abrar, an army chief in 2015 Maiwand Corps.

Meanwhile, Bost Zone Police Chief Major Gen. Mohammad Hakim Angar said: “Our forces have advanced by six kilometers in their operation which started two days ago. They have cleared many villages as well. We will launch other military operations in Helmand’s districts after clearing Lashkargah city.”

He added that the military operation is targeting insurgents from the air and ground and no casualties have been inflicted on the security forces or on civilians so far.

“Taliban’s casualty toll is high in this operation, but due to a heavy clash, we could not get exact information in this respect. No casualties were imposed on security forces or civilians in this operation,” Angar stated.

The military operation comes four months after the Taliban attacked the outskirts of Lashkargah city and took control of some areas.