September 19, 2008	Friday	Ramazan 18, 1429

KHAR, Sept 18: Security forces backed by helicopter gunships and planes made further advance into the troubled areas of Bajaur Agency on Thursday and moved into Siddiqabad and Tauhidabad areas.

The forces attacked militants’ positions with heavy artillery and mortar, killing 11 suspected militants and injuring 15 others.However, the ISPR put the death toll at 10.

Reports of pitched battles between the security forces and the militants were reported from Lowi Sam, Tang Khatta and Rashakai areas on Wednesday night and Thursday.

Sources said the militants attacked troops’ positions with heavy weapons from three locations and a heavy exchange of fire followed.

The bodies of militants were lying in the fields till 10am. Security forces suffered no causality.

Local people said that helicopter gunships and planes bombed different locations from 8am till 12 noon.

Security forces based in Khar and in Tor Ghundai area also attacked militants’ hideouts with heavy artillery and mortar.