Security operation: Up to 41 militants die in Kurram, Orakzai clashes

Troops attack hideouts; sources dispute government’s death toll.

PESHAWAR: An attack launched by security forces on militant hideouts in Kurram Agency early on Friday left 35 militants dead and 10 others wounded, security officials said.

The firefight that ensued, lasting several hours, also left four soldiers dead.

Confirming the clashes and casualties in the report, militant sources disputed the death toll provided by the government.

However, there was no independent confirmation of the battle.

In a separate incident the same day, security forces killed six militants and destroyed two hideouts in Orakzai Agency.

A search operation was also carried out in the village of Paskalay where 15 suspected militants were arrested.

Security forces claim that they have killed over 120 militants and injured 40 in Orakzai Agency over the past week. They also claim to have regained control of Akhund Kot, Chapar and Dapar Killay areas.

An operation was launched in Orakzai Agency in March last year, while the Kurram operation was launched this summer. However, this past week, security forces have increased their advance in both agencies.

(WITH ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY IFTIKHAR FIRDOUS IN PESHAWAR)

Published in The Express Tribune, November 26^th, 2011.