Dawn : Pakistan says up to 70 militants dead in new clashes

Pakistan says up to 70 militants dead in new clashes

AFP | November 1, 2007

ISLAMABAD, Nov 1 (AFP) - Pakistani security forces backed by gunship helicopters killed up to 70 militants in two days of clashes in scenic Swat valley of North West Frontier Province, the army said Thursday quoting police and paramilitary sources.

A ceasefire broke down in the troubled Swat Valley on Wednesday and fresh fighting erupted early Thursday when militants loyal to a hardline pro-Taliban cleric attacked a security checkpost, the army said.

“Police and Frontier Constabulary sources have confirmed death of 60 to 70 miscreants,” an army statement said.

On Wednesday night officials gave a death toll of 20.