AFGHAN security forces in crackdown against militants in Samangan province have killed six armed insurgents and captured a Taliban key commander alive, army spokesman in the northern region Mohammad Hanif Rezai said yesterday.

The operations covering parts of Khuram-o-Sarbagh district were kicked off Saturday. The security forces also captured Qari Shafi, the Taliban key commander in the restive district.

Describing Qari Shafi as a notorious commander, Rezai said Shafi’s arrest could prove a major setback for the Taliban insurgents in Samangan and its vicinity.

Four more militants sustained injury in the firefight, the official added.

Without providing information on possible casualties of security personnel, the official said the security forces would continue to chase the insurgents elsewhere in Samangan and adjoining areas. (Xinhua)