Security forces killed 15 terrorists in South Waziristan Agency (SWA) during the ongoing military assault against the terrorists of Mehsud network in 'Operation Rah-e-Nijat' (the path of salvation), while three security officials including one officer were martyred. Forces have cleared many areas and recovered huge cache of arms, ammunition and explosives.
After clearing the areas from terrorists, security forces are consolidating their positions, said a spokesman of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) here on Wednesday. Security forces have encircled the terrorists hideouts on heights surrounding Kotkai area of the SWA and they are engaged in an intense fighting with them, he said, adding that after securing Tor Ghundai area in east of Kotkai, security forces are in the process of clearing surrounding heights and caves.
During the fierce battle with terrorists one officer and one soldier of Pakistan Army were martyred and four others were injured in the area, he said. He said that the security forces have killed seven terrorists during an operation to secure Malik Shahi area of the SWA. After securing this area they are now undertaking clearance operation upto Mizo-Wam.
Forces have established check post at Manzai Kili west of Mandanna after clearing this area from terrorists and they are also strengthening their positions at area around Spinkai.
The spokesman said that the security forces have made good progress and cleared Khaisura village linking up with Tiarza fort from terrorists. During the operation eight terrorists have been killed and many houses of this village were converted into bunkers, he said, adding that the forces have discovered heavily-fortified bunkers having two-meter-thick concrete walls and these walls were destroyed.
At present security forces are conducting search and clearance operation in Sherwangi and surrounding areas along with consolidation at Wuzi Sar and Gurgura Sar, he said, adding that during the exchange of fire with terrorists in this area one soldier was martyred and three were injured.
Meanwhile, in Operation Rah-e-Rast being carried out in Malakand division, security forces raided a house at Tilligram after receiving an intercept regarding a suicide mission and killed the potential suicide bomber when he was getting ready for the suicide mission, he said. He said that two terrorists voluntarily surrendered to security forces at Tiligram, Tutan Banda. Security forces conducted search operation at Shalpin near Khawazakhela and arrested 10 suspects.