Islamabad: Pakistani security forces have
captured 39 militants in search and clearance operations in
Swat and other parts of the restive Malakand division, where
violence has surged in the past few weeks amidst the return of
people displaced by the operations against the Taliban.
Thirty suspects were apprehended by security forces
during an operation at Tiligram and Zind Wala in the Swat
valley. The troops also discovered a tunnel used by militants
as a hideout, the military said in a statement on Sunday.
Troops captured three militants from Muslim Baig Sar
near Derai while three more suspects were apprehended during a
search at Nagwa, Dedawar and Dadhrah.
Security forces also destroyed three caves and captured
three suspects during an operation near Bishban.
Another 12 militants surrendered to security forces near
Fatehpur and Madyan. Troops also discovered a 25-foot-long
cave used by militants during a search at Loe Namal.
Despite the Army's successes against the militants,
violence has surged in Swat in the past few weeks. Three
soldiers were killed and two more injured while trying to nab
a suicide attacker last night.
Troops spotted the suicide bomber while was heading for
a crowded residential area at Kanju in Swat. He blew himself
up when he was surrounded by troops.
Bureau Report
First Published: Sunday, August 23, 2009, 17:39