KHAR, Sept 22: A paramilitary soldier and two women were killed and eight others injured on Friday night in clashes between security forces and militants in Khar, the headquarters of Bajaur Agency.

Confirming the casualties, an official said on Saturday the militants fired rockets on the headquarters of the paramilitary Bajaur Scouts and a residential colony at about 1am. A rocket shell landed inside the paramilitary base, killing soldier Syed Waheed. Another soldier, Murad Khan, was injured.

Local people said the security forces retaliated and the exchange of fire continued for some two hours. Residential areas also came under attack.

Local people said a mortar shell hit the house of Mr Amanullah in the Shandai area near Khar, killing two women and injuring the house owner.

Another shell struck the house of Mohammad Zada in the Faza locality, injuring Suhail Khan, Mohammad Zada and the wife of Mr Zeeshan. Two Levies men were also injured.