HERAT, Afghanistan, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Up to 17 soldiers of Afghan army were killed as militants stormed a checkpoint in Shindand area of the western Farah province late Friday night, Jilani Farhad, spokesman for Herat police said Saturday.
"A group of Taliban militants attacked an army checkpoint in Zawol area of Shindand district in western Herat province late Friday night, killing 17 army soldiers and injuring another," Farhad told Xinhua.
He said the Taliban militants also suffered casualties, but did not give an exact figure.
Taliban also exploded the checkpoint and took all vehicles and equipments of the soldiers, Farhad added.
The attack happened after Afghan government on Thursday announced a ceasefire with Taliban starting June 12. Taliban on Saturday also announced three-day ceasefire with Afghan government during holidays of Eid-ul-Fitr, the second largest annual religious festival.
The first day of Eid-ul-Fitr probably falls on Thursday or Friday depending on the sighting of the moon.
