Islamabad: At least 51 militants and four
soldiers have died in Pakistan`s restive northwest after
security forces backed by combat jets launched a major
offensive a week back, officials said on Sunday.
A total of 26 militants were killed and 15 more injured
when combat jets bombarded rebel hideouts in the Orakzai and
Kurram tribal regions today.
Seven hideouts were destroyed in the air strikes,
officials said.
At least 25 militants and four security personnel have
died in clashes in the Bara region of Khyber Agency since
March 12, officials said.
A dozen security personnel were injured in the fighting.
Troops are currently conducting operations against the
banned Lashkar-e-Islam in Khyber Agency.
Officials denied reports that some militants were killed
in custody in Bara following the recovery of 14 bullet-riddled
and mutilated bodies in the region.
The casualties in the fighting could not be independently
confirmed as journalists are barred from reporting from the
tribal belt.
PTI
