GHAZNI, Afghanistan, July 4 (Xinhua) -- At least 17 militants loyal to the Taliban were killed and five others wounded following a clearance operation in Qarabagh district of the eastern Ghazni province, an official said Thursday.

Afghan special force launched an anti-insurgent operation in Moshaki area of Qarabagh district on Wednesday to strengthen security of the Kabul-Kandahar highway passing through the restive Ghazni province, killing at least 17 militants and wounding five others, Aref Nuri, the provincial governor's spokesman said.

Huge quantity of arms and ammunition as well as four motorcycles have also been confiscated from the militants possessions during the mop-up, according to the official.

Taliban militants have not commented on the incident so far.