PESHAWAR: A group of militants were detected and engaged by security forces late on December 12 according to security sources. This was near Shadi Khel Spinwam area in North Waziristan.
According to security sources, thermal imaging camera spotted 15 to 18 militants at an STS post. The group was then seen moving west toward the Yashkhulla Nullah. Surveillance Quadcopters were used to track their movements as they approached a built-up area.
The militants noticed the surveillance drone at 10:35pm and dispersed into nearby vegetation in small groups.
Six air strikes were carried out after extensive aerial surveillance as revealed by the sources. It resulted in the deaths of at least 5 militants. Aba Khel Post under 243 Wing executed four strikes while BDU at brigade headquarters level executed two strikes.
It has been confirmed that nine to 10 militants at least were hit with at least five killed. Militants recovered some of the bodies which were seen lying at the site. The engagement continued until around 11:40 pm lasting for about an hour.
Surveillance footage showed injured and killed militants. Injuries to several militants were also confirmed by intercepted communications.
Also read: Around 100 militants lay down arms in Dera Bugti: Sarfraz Bugti
