FARAH, Afghanistan, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Eight militants have been confirmed dead and nine others sustained injuries as a clash erupted in Pashtrod district of the western Farah province on Sunday, provincial police spokesman Mohibullah Mohib said Monday.

According to the official, the clash broke out after the security forces launched cleanup operations in parts of the restive district Sunday morning to stabilize security there.

Mohib also said that the militants had been expelled from some areas and the operations are continuing to ensure lasting peace in the troubled district.

Taliban militants have not made comments yet.