77 militants killed within day in Afghanistan

Kabul, July 13 (IANS) At least 77 Taliban militants were killed in army operations in Afghanistan since early Saturday, defence ministry said Sunday.

"Afghan National Army (ANA) conducted several security operations in Laghman, Ghazni and Helmand provinces over the past 24 hours, killing 77 armed militants and injuring several other militants," Xinhua reported citing the ministry.

The army defused 28 roadside bombs and landmines besides seizing weapons and ammunition.

Three soldiers also died following separate roadside bombings over the same period, the statement noted.