Afghan officials said at least seven border police officers were killed when their checkpoint came under attack by insurgents in southern Kandahar province, The Associated Press reported.

Aziz Ahmad Azizi, spokesman for the provincial governor in Kandahar, said four other officers were wounded in the attack in the Spin Bolduk district.

He added that 16 insurgents were killed and 11 others wounded in an ensuing battle that took place over several hours late Friday.

The Taliban, however, did not immediately comment on the attack.