QALAT - At least 48 militants have been killed so far during the operation in southern Zabul province to rescue about 30 passengers abducted about two weeks ago on the Kabul-Kandahar highway, security sources said.

Three commanders of the armed militants operating under Daesh group were also among the killed militants, said Gen. Abdul Hamid, commander of the Afghan National Army (ANA) 205th Atal Corps.

"Domestic and foreign militants holding black flags are being fought in this operation in which 48 militants have been killed so far," Gen. Hamid said. "A woman wearing military uniform has also been arrested after being injured in the battle, and she is now under medical treatment."

The operation has entered its second day after the security commanders decided to launch an operation against the abductors following the failure of negotiators to free the passengers.

About 30 passengers belonging to Hazara ethnic minority were kidnapped 10 days ago by armed masked men from Shah Joy district of Zabul.

According to the drivers and eyewitnesses, the abductors drove the passengers away to Khak Afghan district after identifying them to be Hazara men.

The operation, which was already warned by the officials, was launched after the mediation between the Zabul elders and abductors apparently failed.

The Kandahar Police Chief Gen. Abdul Raziq and 205th Atal Corps commanders are currently leading the operation in an attempt to free the passengers without any harm.

However, the families of the abductees still wait on news about the fate of their beloved ones, keeping eyes at their doors for the past 10 days.

Civil society activists rallied two days ago in northern Balkh, criticizing the government for not putting adequate efforts to rescue those abducted. (Tolonews)