Peshawar: Eighty Taliban fighters were
killed and 60 more injured when helicopter gunships pounded
militant hideouts in volatile Orakzai tribal region in
northwest Pakistan, security officials said.
The gunship helicopters targeted militant positions at
Dabori, Shaikhan, Baran, Sarmabosar, Khatango Ghar, Mir Ghar
Sarohela and Anjani areas of Orakzai Agency, which borders
Afghanistan.
A dozen explosive-laden vehicles and 11 bunkers were
destroyed in the air strikes, the officials said, adding 12
mules used by militants for transporting supplies were also
killed in the bombardment.
Troops also advanced to Ghoz Ghwar area where they
repulsed an offensive by militants and seized a cache of arms
and ammunition.
Security forces have stepped up combing operations
against the Taliban rebels in Orakzai Agency. The Taliban
moved to the region after the army launched an operation in
South Waziristan Agency.
Officials have claimed that over 800 militants have
been killed since the army launched an offensive against the
Taliban in the region earlier this year.
PTI
First Published: Saturday, May 29, 2010, 16:23