12 militants killed as jets pound sanctuaries in North Waziristan

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MIRANSHAH-

At least 12 militants were killed in the latest aerial strikes by security forces in restive North Waziristan Agency on Wednesday, according to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Security forces, backed by helicopter gunships, pounded militant positions in Datta Khel town of North Waziristan, killing a dozen insurgents. Seven vehicles were also destroyed in the shelling, said the statement.

Forces continue to make advancement in Datta Khel, it added.

North Waziristan is one of the seven semi-autonomous tribal districts that border Afghanistan. It has been a hub for Al-Qaeda and Taliban militants since the early 2000s.

The Pakistani military launched a major offensive in the district in June and says it has killed more almost 1,600 militants so far, with 126 soldiers losing their lives.