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.
