The Afghan security forces' operation "Shafaq 2" has been launched in the country's south-eastern zone to eliminate insurgents.

Thunder 203 Corps spokesman Fazal Khuda said that two days ago the winter operation, Shafaq 2, was launched in Paktiya, Paktika, Logar and Ghazni provinces.

Paktiya governor Zalmai Wisa warned that insurgents who fail to join the peace process will be eliminated.

Paktiya local officials said that so far security forces have been successful.

But Paktiya provincial council members argued that security forces need to step up efforts to maintain security of villages recently cleared of insurgents.

Officials called on residents to cooperate with security forces over maintaining security and eliminating insurgents.