The Ministry of Defense of Afghanistan has confirmed that the Taliban militants have captured 58 border security forces in northwestern Badghis province.

According to a statement released by Ministry of Defense, all 58 border security forces soldiers who had crossed into Turkmenistan, have safely returned home.

The statement further added that the families of the soldiers who were forced to flee to Turkmenistan have also returned home.

At least 58 soldiers of border security forces are still in custody of Taliban militants, the Ministry of Defense said, adding that operations are underway for the release of detained soldier.

“All 58 border security soldiers (BSS) returned home from Turkmenistan. Afghan families, who were forced by Taliban to emigrate to Turkmenistan, returned home safe. Unfortunately, 58 BSS are captured by the enemies. Search Ops will continue until we release them,” the statement said.

The provincial council officials had earlier said that 50 border forces soldiers have surrendered to Taliban in Bala Morghab district while more than 60 others have taken refuge in Turkmenistan after coordinated Taliban attacks.