Pakistani forces backed by helicopter gunships on Sunday killed 23 militants during fierce clashes and destroyed three hideouts in the volatile Orakzai tribal area in the country’s northwest, official sources said.
At least 12 militants died in the clashes that took place early on Sinday in Sanghra, Saam and Nakhtaro Ghar areas, where troops have launched a fresh offensive to flush out pro-Taliban militants from the region.
Eleven more militants were killed in fierce clashes in Sherin Darra area, which was captured by the troops, the sources said.
Security officials have claimed that about 300 militants have been killed since the operation was launched in Orakzai Agency to flush out pro-Taliban militants. About a dozen security personnel have also died in the fighting.
