GHALANAI, March 12: Jet fighters and helicopter gunships attacked some villages in Khwaizai and Baizai tehsils along the Afghan border and in Michinai area of Mohmand agency on Thursday.

No casualty was reported after the attack.

Security forces also launched a ground operation in Baizai and claimed to have advanced to some areas to flush out militants.

Troops destroyed 20 houses, including that of Taliban spokesperson Ikramullha Mohmand, in Kong and Sheikhan villages.

Sources said a Taliban Markaz in Sheikhano Kalley was also destroyed.

The main highway from the Nehqi checkpost to Bajaur was closed to traffic.

Helicopter gunships also targeted militants’ positions in Bahaikor, Speray and Mullaghani villages.

AFP adds: Paramilitary forces backed by jets and helicopter gunships killed 18 militants in a tribal region bordering Afghanistan, a security official said.

“At least 18 militants were killed, including one important commander,” a security official told AFP.

He did not disclose the identity of the commander.

“Helicopter gunships, jets and artillery pounded and destroyed several militant hideouts in various areas of Mohmand,” the official said

“There were no casualties of security forces.”
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