FAIZABAD, Afghanistan, Nov. 23 (Xinhua) — Heavy clash flared up in Jarm district of Badakhshan province with Faizabad as its capital 315 km northeast of Kabul as Taliban militants launched offensive against security forces Monday morning, a local official said.

“Taliban outfit launched massive offensive against security forces in Jarm district with the objective to capture the district headquarters. Security forces returned fire, and clash has been continuing,” district police chief, Mohammad Amin told Xinhua.

However, he didn’t comment on possible casualties of both sides.

Taliban militants who are active in parts of Badakhshan province haven’t commented.