Eight soldiers were killed in the ongoing clashes with militants in northern Kundoz province, Khaama press reported Sunday.

Abdul Wasi Basil, spokesman for Kundoz governor, said that 16 soldiers have also sustained injuries in the heavy clashes ongoing in Gur Tapa and Qala-i-Zal District since yesterday.

He confirmed the killing of 45 militants during these clashes.

Reports from the area suggest that security forces have left some points to the militants in Gur Tapa area but Basil said that it was tactical stepping back.

Taliban spokesman has confirmed militants are involved in fighting with security forces in Kundoz province.