KABUL, Oct. 31 (Xinhua) -- Afghan forces backed by the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) have eliminated a dozen Taliban insurgents and established government control over 17 villages in Darzab district of Jauzjan province north of Afghanistan, police said Saturday.

    "The operation began three days ago and until Friday night 12 rebels have been killed and 17 villages have been liberated from the clutch of the insurgents in Darzab district," deputy to provincial police chief Mohammad Ibrahim told Xinhua.

    Taliban militants have yet to make comment.

    The aim of the operation, he added, was to ensure security ahead of the second round election between two top candidates set for Nov. 7.