KUNDUZ, Afghanistan, Jan. 18 (Xinhua) -- Seven police lost their lives and three others sustained injuries as Taliban militants attacked a security checkpoint in Zakhil area outside Kunduz city, capital of Afghanistan's northern Kunduz province on Friday, local police officer Abdul Qayum said.

However, the official asserted that the militants fled after facing resistance and suffering casualties.

Meanwhile, provincial police spokesman Inamudin Rahmani has confirmed the clash, but could not provide details.

Taliban militants haven't commented.