The Afghan army has ended a Taliban attack on one of its bases that killed at least 130 soldiers, according to military officials.

Fighting lasted several hours in the northern Balkh province.

An army spokesman said the insurgents targeted those leaving Friday prayers at the base’s mosque, as well as others in a canteen, reports the BBC.

The Taliban claimed the attack in a statement and said they used suicide bombers to breach the defenses.

At least 10 Taliban militants were killed in the fighting at the military headquarters in the town of Mazar-e-Sharif.

Quoting AFP news agency, BBC further reports one assailant has been detained.

BDST: 1248 HRS, APR 22, 2017
SR