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Clashes kill 13 soldiers S. Afghanistan

ISLAMABAD, May 25 (KUNA) -- At least 13 Afghan soldiers have been killed and eight others wounded during a clash with Taliban rebels in Afghanistan's southern Kandahar province, said officials on Thursday.
Provincial Governor's spokesman, Samim Khpalwak told media that the clash took place when hundreds of Taliban rebels stormed army posts in the Jagram area of Maiwand district. He added that the gun battle continued for several hours and Taliban faced strong retaliation from the security forces, claiming that the militants suffered heavy casualties but did not provide exact figures.
Security officials in Kandahar confirmed that at least 13 soldiers were killed and eight others wounded in the attack.
According to local media, around eight Taliban rebels have also been killed in the overnight clash. Taliban have not yet commented on the incident. Earlier on Tuesday, at least 10 Afghan soldiers have been killed and as many others wounded in an attack by Taliban that targeted a military base in Kandahar's Arghandab district. The attacks came at a time when Taliban have announced their spring offensive last month against the security forces across Afghanistan. (end) sbk.hb