MAIMANA, Afghanistan, July 5 (Xinhua) -- At least four civilians have been confirmed dead and 36 others sustained injures as the mortar attacks from militants struck residential areas and a bazaar in Khawja Sabzposh district of the northern Faryab province on Friday, provincial police spokesman Abdul Karim Yurash said.

"Taliban rebels fired several mortars mine today morning and all slammed into residential areas and a local market called Ganj bazaar in Khawja Sabzposh district, killing four civilians on the spot and injuring 36 others," Yurash told Xinhua.

The incident was followed by gun battle between security forces deployed in the area and the Taliban militants, the official said, adding fighting has been continuing and the security forces have been trying to evict the insurgents to ensure peace and stability in the restive district.

Taliban militants who are active in Khawja Sabzposh district and adjoining areas are yet to make comment.