KABUL - Afghan security forces backed by US-led coalition forces killed 19 Taliban militants in Paktika province of eastern Afghanistan, an official said Saturday.

“The operation, began Friday morning, left 19 militants dead so far including their commander Mohibullha,” spokesman of provincial administration Hamidullah Zuwak said.

The operation was launched in an area between Gomal and Sarobi districts and no casualties of security forces or civilians were reported, he added.