10 militants killed in Chamalang skirmishes

FC personnel came under attack in Behlol, where another contingent had been ambushed last week.

QUETTA: At least ten militants were reportedly killed and several others injured during a deadly clash with the paramilitary troops in Behlol area near Chamalang coal field.

According to sources, Frontier Corps (FC) were establishing a check post near Behlol when armed men opened fire at security personnel. Ten attackers were killed in the ensuing exchange of fire, security sources claimed.

Behlol was the scene of an attack on FC men last year in November that killed 10 soldiers, including a Major.

According to a report from Chamalang, security forces had launched a fresh operation in the area against militants, allegedly belonging to the Marri tribe.

A report by the FC says that they had arrested scores of suspects during the operation and shifted to an undisclosed location for questioning.

According to a press release issued by FC spokesperson early on Monday, security forces cleared the Behlol area and coalmine project there will be started soon.

Chamalang coalfield is considered to be an important project of the Pakistan Army and it has been operating under strict security.

Frontier Corps personnel are deputed along an outer cordon to the coalfield to ensure safety and security of the mine workers, including engineers and officials.