Operation Zarb-e-Azb: 18 militants, including TTP commander, killed in fresh strikes: ISPR

 MIRANSHAH-

Integrated operation of Artillery, Tanks and Heavy weapons by the Pakistan Armed forces targeted terrorist hideouts outside Miranshah on early Saturday, killing at least seven suspected terrorists, according to a statement by the Inter Service Public Relations (ISPR).

The statement added that Friday night’s bombardment by PAF jets on militant concentrations killed at least 11 terrorists, including Miranshah’s Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) Commander Umer on the outskirts of Mir Ali.

An al-Qaeda commander was also caught while trying to flee the area. He is an explosive-making expert.

Three more terrorists have been held by security forces near Mianwali near Mianwali and all spots along the river have been sealed to prevent escape, the statement said.

The statement further added that civilian population has been evacuated from North Waziristan.

“To make sure that there are no innocent civilians still left in the area, announcements are being made for any stranded tribals who may have stayed back for any reasons, to leave also,” it stated.

There have also been reports of surrender by more terrorists after 19 militants laid down arms earlier.

ISPR stated that IDPs are being supplied ration and cattle fodder through various delivery points established by Army in collaboration with civil administration at Bannu, DI Khan and Tank.

A field medical hospital established in Bannu and a special civil-military veterinary set up are treating the IDPs and cattle, respectively.

“After initial Cash disbursement manually, the process of disbursement through mobile Sims has been launched, for which Sims are being distributed to families as well,” it added.

The statement also acknowledged enthusiastic response by the nation in depositing  relief goods and money for the IDPs at collection points set across the country by the Army while adding that until  now 131 tons of ration have been collected and dispatched to Bannu.