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Security forces kill 22 rebels in SE. Afghanistan

ISLAMABAD, June 18 (KUNA) -- At least 22 Taliban rebels were killed and many others injured in Afghan security forces joint operation in Afghanistan's southeastern Paktia province on Thursday, said officials.
Provincial police chief, Maj. Gen. Zalmai Oryakhel told media that forces conducted offensive in Dandpatan and Zurmat districts of Paktia killing at least 22 Taliban rebels.
Sixteen insurgents were killed in Dandpatan while eight rebels were eliminated in Zurmat, he added. He claimed that Afghan security forces remained unhurt in the offensive.
The operation came at a time when Afghan security forces are facing the annual warm weather offensive by Taliban rebels alone following the withdrawal of NATO/ISAF forces from Afghanistan at the end of last year. (end) sbk.hs