Related: NATO plane crashes in S. Afghanistan

    KABUL, Sept. 2 (Xinhua) -- Afghan and NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) launched a massive crackdown against Taliban-linked militants in the militias' former stronghold of Kandahar Saturday morning, Kandahar's governor Assadullah Khalid disclosed.

    "The operation began this morning has been covering the districts of Panjwai and Jalai and would continue till the elimination of enemies," Khalid told journalists at a press briefing in Kandahar city.

    Both the districts have been the scene of militants' activities throughout the year as a deadly bomb attack in Panjwai left more than 20 people dead mostly civilians early last month.

    "Heavy artillery and air strikes are used in today's operation to eliminate the enemies," Kandahar's provincial governor added.

    He also disclosed that the authorities had imposed ban on conveyance saying no one is allowed to ride bicycle, motorbike and vehicle till the operation is over.

    More than 35,000 NATO and the U.S.-led coalition forces have been stationed in the post-Taliban central Asian state to ensure stability here. Enditem