The Taliban has killed 16 pro-government militia fighters in an attack over the weekend in southern Helmand province, officials confirmed.
The attackers are believed to have targeted a checkpoint belonging to pro-government forces in the Gareshk district.
Omar Zwak, a spokesman for the provincial governor, confirmed an investigation is under way.
Qari Yusouf Ahmadi, a Taliban spokesman, claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement sent to the media.
He said two Taliban fighters involved in the attack had managed to escape, confiscating all ammunition from pro-government fighters.
