By IRNA,
Islamabad : A local militant commander and six others were killed in fresh shelling by the Pakistani security forces in Bajaur tribal region on Friday, TV channels reported.
Shah Khalid, a commander of local Taliban, was killed in Mamond area of Bajaur, ARY television reported.
There was no official confirmation of Khalid’s death.
Dawn TV also reported bombing by early morning in Mamond and Chaharmang areas.
Fresh shelling came at a time when funeral of slain tribal chief Malik Rehmatullah, his son and guards held in Badan area.
A suicide bomber attacked the tribal chief inside a mosque when he was offering evening prayers. Death toll from the attack reached 10, locals said.
Malik Rehmatullah had formed a tribal ‘lashkar’ or army against the militants in Mamond area.
Mamond area is considered to be a stronghold of militants and several local tribesmen have marriages with Arab militants, who had fought in Afghanistan and later settled in the tribal region.
Elders of Mamond tribe on Friday vowed to continue campaign against the militants despite their suicide attacks.
Locals said that security forces Friday took control of another Taliban stronghold of Nawagai area and are making advance.