The Haqqani network, considered one of the most dangerous militant groups fighting in Afghanistan, was responsible for several high-profile attacks, including the deadly raid on Kabul's Intercontinental hotel in June, the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said in a statement.

Disenfranchised insurgents told security forces where the Haqqani network camp was located in eastern Paktika province and the operation began late on July 20 and ended early on July 22, the coalition said.

"The encampment site was a staging area for Haqqani and foreign fighters. These fighters were moved into the country by Haqqani insurgents who planned to use them for attacks throughout Afghanistan," ISAF said.

Security forces recovered numerous stockpiles of weapons, including mortars, rocket propelled grenades with warheads, machine guns with multiple crates of ammunition, AK-47 rifles, grenades and military gear, ISAF said.

At least nine people were killed on June 28 when nine heavily-armed attackers stormed the Intercontinental hotel in Kabul, which is frequented by Westerners and VIPs.

Also on July 22 five Afghan civilians were killed in northern Faryab province when their vehicle hit a roadside bomb, said Sayed Masood Yaqubi, spokesman for the provincial police chief.