Islamabad: Fifty-three terrorists, including some foreigners, were killed in air strikes by the Pakistani military on Tuesday in North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan, it was officially stated.
The “precise aerial strikes” targeted hideouts of militants in Datta Khel area of North Waziristan, the Inter-Services Public Relations Department said in a statement.
According to the statement, six terrorists’ hideouts, an ammunition dump and seven explosive laden vehicles were also destroyed.
A military offensive launched in North Waziristan in mid-June last year is still going on and, according to military officials, over 80 per cent of the region has been cleared of terrorists.
Army Chief General Raheel Sharif said on Tuesday that the army would continue its operation until the last terrorist was eliminated.
Addressing troops in Mohmand Agency tribal area, he said a comprehensive and uniform reconstruction and rehabilitation policy in federally administered tribal areas would help eliminate terrorism.
He said such a policy would help root out terrorism on a long-term basis by providing education and economic opportunities to the tribal youth.
The army chief appreciated the troops for their professionalism, dedication and sacrifices in fighting terrorism and bringing stability in Mohmand Agency.
General Raheel Sharif said the military would never abandon the tribal areas without fully restoring them to functional normalcy.
