Taliban release 7 Afghan soldiers

FAYZABAD, Afghanistan, Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Taliban militants in northeastern Afghanistan have released seven Afghan national army soldiers who were kidnapped a week ago, officials said.

The soldiers were freed after local tribal elders in Badakhshan province negotiated with the militants, Khaama Press reported Saturday.

Wardooj district chief Dawlat Mohammad Khawar confirmed the release and said the Afghan army would carry out operations to clear the region of militants.

At least 23 Afghan police officers were killed and 21 others were wounded Wednesday in an ambush by Taliban militants in Wardooj district, the news report said. During the attack, as many as 24 other police officers were abducted.