Officials in Bajaur Agency have confirmed the continuation of clashes between security forces and militants for the eighth consecutive day, claiming that three militants, including an active commander of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan Swat chapter have been killed in fresh round of clashes. The clashes erupted a week ago when scores of militants from across the border in Afghanistan attacked security forces checkposts in Salarzai tehsil. The militants abducted more than a dozen security force personnel and tribesmen, including volunteers of peace militias. A spokesman for the militants had on Thursday claimed having killed 12 personnel of security forces and released a video for journalists in Afghanistan.The militants still claim to have several personnel of Pakistani security forces and pro-government tribesmen in captivity.
Sources in Bajaur confirmed fierce fighting between the two sides in Batwaar and surrounding areas.
Officials said it was difficult for the forces to call in aerial support due to the sensitive geographical location of Bajaur, adding that the airstrikes could effectively bring the situation under control. The officials have already confirmed the killing of 10 personnel of security forces in the ongoing clashes, and according to the officials, more than 70 militants have been killed and eight arrested. However, the Taliban have contradicted the figures.