At least 12 militants were killed and four soldiers lost their lives during ongoing military operation in northwest Pakistan's South Waziristan tribal area in the last 24 hours, an army statement said Tuesday, Xinhua reported.
Security forces are consolidating their positions and extending perimeter of security around Kaskai and Shisanwam in the area. Militants from surrounding heights are engaging security forces with rockets and small arms. Fire fight is continuing. As a result, 12 militants were killed, four soldiers lost their lives and three other soldiers were injured, according to the Inter Services Public relations.
Security forces recovered large quantity of weapons and ammunitions in Jandola-Sararogha area, including mortar bombs, grenades, suicidal jackets, heavy machine gun and many others.
In Shakai-Ladha area, security forces are consolidating their positions at Sherwangi and perimeter of security is also being extended. The important heights surrounding Sherwangi have been secured and militants have vacated their positions leaving behind arms and ammunition.
Besides, eight militants voluntarily surrendered to security forces in Malakand and Swat area in North West Frontier Province ( NWFP). Security forces conducted search operation at Salhand and Devolai in NWFP and apprehended three suspects.
Local officials said that 14,500 dislocated families in South Waziristan have been registered and most of them prefer to stay with their relatives elsewhere.
More than 80,000 civilians have fled South Waziristan in anticipation of the offensive and the United Nations refugee agency said more people are leaving this week.
The army warned that up to 250,000 civilians are expected to displace in South Waziristan.
Pakistani security forces launched military operation in South Waziristan tribal agency bordering Afghanistan in early Oct. 17 morning. The army said that about 30,000 soldiers are in place to take on an estimated 10,000 hard-core Taliban militants in the lawless area.