18 killed in Taliban attack in Afghanistan

At least 17 members of public uprising forces and a local police commander were killed when the Taliban stormed a party hall in northern Afghanistan's Balkh province on Saturday evening, according to local officials.

Sarajuddin Abid, Sholgara's district governor was quoted by Tolonews as saying, "The incident happened on Saturday night when a group of Taliban militants attacked a party in Buzboi village in the district in Balkh province and shot dead eighteen people."

According to Abid, a person who was also present at the party had alleged links with the Taliban. It was also suspected that the person left the scene before the militants attacked the party hall.

Abdul Raziq Qaderi, the head of security department of Balkh police, also confirmed the incident and casualties.

This comes hours after a suicide attack had taken place in Kabul's Intercontinental Hotel, where 18 people died, including three terrorists.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for that attack as well.