Islamabad, Nov 08: At least 28 militants and three
soldiers were killed in operations by Pakistani security
forces in the troubled north-western Swat valley and adjoining
tribal areas bordering Afghanistan.
Fifteen militants were killed and many others injured
in gun battles with security forces in different parts of
Swat, an army statement said.
Militants fired at security forces in Matta
sub-district, sparking a gun battle that left 10 Taliban
fighters and three soldiers dead. The militants were disguised
in uniforms of the paramilitary Frontier Corps.
In another incident in Wanai area of Matta, three
militants were killed in an exchange of fire with security
forces. A soldier was also injured.
Security forces cordoned Kabal village early this
morning and ordered militants to surrender. Time was given to
residents of Kabal to leave the area so that collateral damage
could be avoided. Two militants were killed during an exchange
of fire in the area.
Gunship helicopters also destroyed a compound in Kabal
that was being used as a base and a Shariat or Islamic court
by the Taliban.
At least six militants were killed and several others
injured during operations by security forces in Bajaur Agency.
The troops pounded militant hideouts in Mamoond, Dama Dola,
Kharkai and Zoor Bandar with artillery and heavy weapons,
killing the militants.
In the Mohmand tribal region, at least seven militants
were killed and nine others injured when clashes broke out
between the Taliban and security forces. An official said a
security a personnel was injured in the incident.
The clashes erupted after militants attacked a security
check post with mortars. The security forces retaliated,
killing seven militants, including several foreigners, the
official said.
Bureau Report
First Published: Sunday, November 09, 2008, 00:00