Forces wrapping up Swat operation

* Three Taliban held in search operation
* Aircraft attack Taliban compound in South Waziristan

Staff Report

RAWALPINDI: Security forces are carrying out search and sweep operations in various parts of the Swat valley in the final phase of the military operation, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.

It said that in the last 24 hours, the forces had apprehended three Taliban during a search operation in Mangai and recovered arms and ammunitions, while five soldiers were injured in Bajaur.

The security forces began the operation at Pararai, Khazana village in the Shamozai area, Rangeela village, Banjot (10 kilometres east of Mingora) and Sambat, it said. In South Waziristan, security forces established a link-up at Sarwakai and Dargai, while Taliban fired rockets at the Inzar China, Zalai and South Waziristan scout camps, causing no loss.

Aircraft attack: Also on Tuesday, Pakistani aircraft attacked a compound in South Waziristan where a large number of Taliban were gathered for a meeting, intelligence officials said. There was no immediate word on casualties, according to Reuters.

In Bajaur, the forces carried out a consolidation operation at Sarkari Qila in Charmang valley. More than 45,000 people – according to registration centres in DI Khan and Tank – have moved from the area even before a military offensive begins in South Waziristan, and are heading for communities already stretched to the limit in terms of resources, officials had said on Monday. The displaced have been accommodated by host families, with each family receiving debit cards worth 5,000 per month, the ISPR said.

Home | National