QUETTA: At least 10 suspected militants were killed in a gunbattle with security forces during a search operation in Sangaan area of Sibi district on Saturday.

Official sources said that three hideouts located in the mountainous area had been destroyed and 12 ‘militants’ arrested.

The security forces had moved into Sangaan area after receiving intelligence about the presence of militants there, they added.

Heavy fighting was reported for hours, resulting in the death of 10 militants.

“Ten suspected militants have been killed and 12 others arrested in the gunbattle,” security officials said, adding that a large quantity of arms and ammunition was seized from the hideouts of militants who belonged to a banned organisation.

Published in Dawn, February 14th, 2016