Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) last night began military operation in Khak-i-Afghan District of Zabul province to release the 30 passengers who were kidnapped by unidentified gunmen nine days ago, Afghan Khaama Press (KP) reported.
Sources say that dozens of insurgents have been killed by the security forces so far.
This operation is being kicked off after two groups of Zabul elders failed to release the abducted passengers.
Local elders who were part of the groups tried to release the abducted passengers say that they were unable to understand the language of those holding the passengers.
These people were taken off from two passenger buses in Shah Joy District of Zabul province on Kabul-Kandahar highway.
The unidentified gunmen stopped the buses and take the passengers hostage who are believed to be the Shia Muslims of Afghanistan.