GHAZNI, Afghanistan, Aug. 10 (Xinhua) -- Taliban militants early Friday launched a massive offensive on Ghazni city, the capital of Ghazni province in eastern Afghanistan, and gun battle continues, provincial police chief Farid Ahmad Mashal said.

"Countless number of Taliban rebels launched multi-pronged attacks early today on several parts of Ghazni city including police department, national directorate for security and provincial governor's office," Mashal told Xinhua.

However, the official claimed that the government forces have launched counter-offensive and cleanup operations are underway.

Meantime, locals said all the shops remain closed and smoke is seen rising out of some areas of the city.

On the other hand, Zabihullah Majahid, Taliban purported spokesman, in contact with media has confirmed the offensive and claimed that the Taliban militants have overrun some security checkpoints outside Ghazni city.