KHAR, Aug 29: Six militants were killed and three security personnel and two members of a peace committee wounded as fighting in parts of Salarzai tehsil in Bajaur agency along the border with Afghanistan continued on Wednesday.

Local people feared huge casualties on both sides as heavy weapons were used in clashes continuing for the past six days.

“The search operation continues in Batwar, Kambili and Tendo Dak areas of Salarzai. At least six militants have been killed and several others wounded,” a local administration official said.

He said security forces and volunteers were targeting suspected hideouts in hilly areas with artillery and other weapons to rid the area of militants. Helicopter gunships were also attacking the targets, he said. The official said security forces had taken over three positions held by the militants and destroyed others.