At least 16 Afghan security forces killed in Taliban attacks

Taliban attacks on a number of border force checkpoints in northern Takhar province left at least 16 members of the Afghan security forces dead, an official said on Thursday.
Two others were also wounded in the overnight militant attack, which took place in the province's Cha-e-Ab district, the deputy of Takhar's provincial council, Salahuddin Burhani, told dpa.
However, a provincial council member, Rohullah Raoufi, put the casualties from the battle at eight dead and six injured. He also said two members of the border forces were taken hostage by Taliban militants.  
Dozens of Taliban militants attacked at least three checkpoints in the district, both officials said.
Taliban militants have an active presence in at least six districts of Takhar province.
Just during the last week, more than 60 members of the Afghan security forces have been killed amid mounting Taliban attacks across Afghanistan.
The government and the Taliban leadership suspended fighting for three days earlier this month, during the Eid holidays, a step that was celebrated by millions of Afghans. 
President Ashraf Ghani subsequently extended the government's ceasefire hoping the militants might do the same. However, the Taliban rejected the request and ramped up attacks starting late on Sunday.