42 more extremists killed in SWA

Updated at: 1734 PST, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan's military said Tuesday 42 militants were killed during some of the heaviest fighting reported from the frontlines of its offensive against the Taliban in their tribal sanctuaries. The latest death toll brings to 239 the total number of insurgents killed during the operation, but no information provided by the army can be verified with communication lines down and access banned to journalists and aid workers. An army statement said troops fought at multiple locations in the far north of South Waziristan, where ground forces thrust towards die hard Taliban positions from their rear base at Razmak, killing 30 militants. Security forces have surrounded Nawazkot, one of the Taliban's main regional strongholds and another 12 militants were killed in fighting on the approach to Taliban bastion Sararogha to the east and Kanigurram further south. The death of a soldier brought to 31 the total number of troops reported killed since the operation began 11 days ago. Around 30,000 troops are taking part in the offensive against an estimated 10-12,000 militants in the semi-autonomous and lawless tribal belt. Relief workers say that around 200,000 people have been displaced by the fighting. Numerous previous offensives in the tribal belt have had limited success, costing the lives of 2,000 troops and ending generally with peace agreements that critics say gave the insurgents a chance to re-arm.Forces also regained control of old FC Post at Nawazkot and recovered huge cache of arms and ammunition from the area.Security forces effectively engaged terrorists positions at Pakallita Sar, Manza Sar, Green Ridge, Lahgar Narai, Zar-e-Sar Base, China and Makeen. During engagement reportedly 30 terrorists have been killed. Forces cleared Tip Ghar, Pt 6813 and Laghar Narai and consolidation is under way. During the search operation huge cache of arms and ammunition have also been recovered. Terrorists fired 2 rockets at Razmak Camp resultantly 2 soldiers were injured. At least eight terrorists voluntarily surrendered to security forces in Miandam, Sarsanai and Fizaghat areas of Swat and Malakand.Security forces conducted search operation at Sam Shin, Sambat Cham and discovered 2 tunnels (15 meters wide and 30 meters long) in Swat area of Mian Killi and also apprehended 3 suspects. The security forces distributed 7,025 cash cards amongst the displaced families of Waziristan.5.3 million rupees have been withdrawn by the displaced families of Waziristan. Army helpline 0996-740439 at D I Khan has been established for complaints and donations.