PESHAWAR: Security forces assaulted militant strongholds in Kurram Agency on Friday around midnight, killing 35 militants and wounding 10 more, security officials said. 

Four soldiers were also killed in the firefight, which lasted several hours. Militant sources confirmed the clashes and casualties but disputed the government’s death toll.

There was no independent confirmation of the battle.

In a separate incident, security forces killed six militants and destroyed two hideouts in Orakzai Agency.

A search operation was also carried out in the village of Paskalay where 15 suspected militants were arrested.

Security forces claim to have killed over 120 militants and injuring 40 in Orakzai Agency during the past one week. They also claim to have regained control of Akhund Kot, Chapar and Dapar Killay areas.

An operation was launched in Orakzai Agency in March last year, while the Kurram operation was launched this summer. However, this past week, security forces have increased their advance in both agencies. AGENCIES