The Kunduz city, in the north of Afghanistan, came under Taliban attack hours after the group announced its so-called spring offensive, local officials said. 

The attack was launched on the outskirts of Kunduz city at 2am on Saturday, said Enamuddin Rahmani, a spokesman for Kunduz police.   

“Taliban started the attack on Kunduz city from different directions last night at around 2pm, but they faced with a strong response by security forces and their attack was foiled,” Rahmani said. “Sporadic clashes are ongoing in some parts of the outskirts of Kunduz city.” 

“Security forces are ready to protect the people. The residents should not be worried,” he reiterated. 

Some families were displaced after the conflicts started, residents said. 

“I am living in Chele Mazar area (on the outskirts) of Kunduz city. We have been displaced and clashes are ongoing,” said Sher Khan, a Kunduz resident. 

Head of Kunduz Provincial Council, Safiullah Amiri, said the situation is “worrying” and that it needs “proper attention” by the local and central government. 

“We call on the local and central government to bring the situation under control; otherwise we will once again witness a tragedy,” he said, referring to the fall of Kunduz city to the Taliban in 2015.