GHAZNI, Afghanistan, March 31 (Xinhua) -- A total of four militants have been killed and several others injured as government forces launched cleanup operations in the eastern Ghazni province of Afghanistan, provincial police chief, Mohammad Zaman said Saturday.

The operations, dubbed Ankabot Sia (black spider) and launched Friday have also liberated several villages from the clutch of Taliban militants, the official contended.

Without mentioning the possible casualties of security forces and providing more details, the official said that the operations would last until the restive Khogiani district and adjoining areas are cleansed of insurgents.

Taliban militants are yet to make comment.