8 security officials, over 30 militants killed in central Kurram skirmish

Security forces had entered a stronghold of militants, it was a counter attack, says official.


Iftikhar Firdous January 31, 2012

PESHAWAR: Eight security officials were killed while 15 sustained injuries when militants attacked a military check post in the Jogi area of central Kurram Agency on Tuesday. Officials claimed to have killed over 30 militants in retaliation.

A security official confirmed the casualties and told The Express Tribune that scores of militants attacked a newly-formed security post in the Jogi area, in which the security forces had entered after a fierce a battle last week.

“The security forces had entered a zone which is considered to be a stronghold of militants. It was a counter attack,” he said.

Helicopters gunships pounded the area and the clash lasted for hours.

Additional troops also joined the combat. “We killed 35 militants in aerial and ground operations,” confirmed officials. “The militant attack was forcibly revolted,” they said.

The Kurram operation has been a lengthy one, for it shares boundaries with Orakzai Agency and North Waziristan on the Pak-Afghan border, making the terrain more difficult to control.

The government has managed to reopen the Thall-Parachinar Highway after a span of almost three years. The recent operation was launched to keep the “fragile peace truce” intact and the road open.

COMMENTS (11)

US CENTCOM | 12 years ago | Reply

The terrorists and militants who are fighting the Pakistani forces are also fighting us across the border. They are our enemies as well. Calling them “American sponsored army” without presenting an iota of proof is not only dishonest but trying to deceive the common reader as well. NATO and the US troops have targeted these militants and so have the brave Pakistani troops across the border. We commend the Pakistani military, who have been fighting these terrorists and our condolences go to the families of fallen soldiers.

The slowdown in our relationship has only helped the terrorists and militants who have stepped up their attacks. It is in everyone’s interest that we resolve our differences and get back to the task of bringing peace in the region. That can only be achieved when militant’s bases on both sides are destroyed on both sides of the border.

Maj David Nevers DET-United States Central Command www.centcom.mil/ur

Rafaqat | 12 years ago | Reply

@harish:

Your name suggests you are an indian, why don't you yawn at an indian news website, rather than wasting your breath over here.

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