By DPA,
Islamabad: At least 27 militants were killed in the on-going military operations in Pakistan’s restive Swat Valley and two adjoining districts, security officials said Wednesday.
The latest killings came as the US special envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Holbrooke announced an additional $165 million for nearly two million people uprooted by the offensive in Swat and surrounding areas.
A military statement said 16 “terrorists” died during a search operation in the Tsapparai Kandao area of Dir, which neighbours Swat. The troops also destroyed three militant training centres.
Eight other rebels were killed in clashes with security forces in Swat, and three died in an exchange of fire in the adjoining Buner district, where two soldiers were also injured.
The army also said it had arrested 10 militants from different parts of the area.
The military assault was launched in the region after the Taliban exploited a peace accord to move dangerously close to the capital, Islamabad.
Pakistani troops have regained control of much of the region after around ten weeks of fighting that has so far left 1,700 militants and 160 servicemen dead.
Some of the over 1.9 million people uprooted by the offensive have gradually started to go back to their homes from the refugee camps or residences of their relatives in North-West Frontier Province.
But many are reluctant because of the continuing irregular violence and fears of a regrouping of the Taliban who have fled to the mountains.
Western countries have applauded the Swat operation, deeming it a significant Pakistani step in the fight against terrorism and extremism, but remained generally less generous in providing aid to the displaced people.
Washington, however, has alone provided $330 million in refugee assistance.
“This administration is committed to support Pakistan and its people during this complicated time,” US envoy Holbrooke told reporters as he announced an additional $165-million aid package.
“We are using every resource available with support of the Congress to help Pakistan,” he added.