Helicopter gunships and fighter jets killed 24 Taliban in raids on their hideouts in Bajaur Agency on Monday, officials said.
Several Taliban strongholds were destroyed in attacks on bunkers in Loyesam, Tang Khata, Rashakai, Tandar Gat, Kirala, Bai Cheena, Tangai and Khazana, officials said. Security forces patrolled Loy Khwar, Tangi, Kotkai and Charmang but did not make ground advances. Curfew was relaxed in parts of the agency earlier in the day and shops and markets were open until afternoon.
In a statement late on Sunday, the military said ground forces secured several areas and were advancing toward Loyesam, located on a key road leading southwards to Peshawar. Official Iqbal Khattak told AP that troops were also trying to secure Nawagai, another strategic town on a main road.
Casualty figures and details of the operation are difficult to confirm independently because of the region's remote and dangerous nature. |