Pakistan killed 40 militants near Afghan border

ISLAMABAD, Apr 6 (Reuters) Pakistani forces killed at least 40 pro-Taliban militants in a troubled tribal region near Afghan border, the military today said, sharply raising the tally from the previous day's fierce fighting.

''Latest information shows that at least 40 miscreants were killed,'' military spokesman Major-General Shaukat Sultan told Reuters.

Pakistani forces launched a counter-offensive after yesterday's fighting using helicopter gunships after militants attacked a paramilitary post, killing four troopers in Shawal area of North Waziristan.

The area has been the scene of fierce fighting since early March.

Yesterday, 16 militants were reported to have been killed in the clashes.

Reuters OM BD1828