The Taliban militants have reportedly seized control of Wardoj district in the restive northeastern Badakhshan province of Afghanistan.

The district administrative chief Dawlat Mohammad Khawar confirmed that the Afghan security forces have retreated from Wardoj following hours of gun battle with the Taliban militants.

He did not confirm if the control of the district was fully seized by the militants and did not comment regarding the casualties as a result of the clash.

The security officials confirmed Wednesday that clashes were underway between the Afghan security forces and the Taliban militants in Wardoj district.

Badakhshan is among the relatively volatile provinces in northeastern Afghanistan where the anti-government armed militants are actively operating in its various districts with Wardoj being one of the most restive districts.

The Taliban militants have carried out numerous attacks in Wardoj district during the recent months.

One of the deadliest attacks on Afghan security forces check posts was carried out earlier in April this year where at least 23 Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers were martyred.