MAZAR-E-SHARIF, Afghanistan, March 6 (Xinhua) -- Four militants including a Taliban key commander Mullah Janat Gul have been killed in Dawlatabad district of the northern Balkh province, provincial police spokesman Shir Jan Durani said Tuesday.

"The government forces, acting upon intelligence report, targeted a hideout of Taliban rebels in Dawlatabad district early today morning, killing the notorious commander Mullah Janat Gul along with three of his men on the spot," Durani told Xinhua.

Janat Gul, according to the official, was a key commander and his death could prove a major setback to the Taliban insurgents in Dawlatabad and adjoining areas.

Security forces, according to the official, launched operations in Dawlatabad district on Monday and would last until the area is cleansed of insurgents.