Seventy militants killed in Dir, 450 more holed up in Buner: Malik

Islamabad, Apr 28 (ANI): Pakistan's Minister for Interior Affairs Rehman Malik said on Tuesday that nearly 450 militants were reportedly holed up in Buner and security forces killed 70 militants in Lower Dir.

Talking to journalists outside the Parliament, Malik said the government would take strict action against the miscreants.

He said that at least 70 militants had been killed in Dir operation so far while 450 others were still present in Buner.

To a question, Rehman Malik said the writ of the state was challenged in Lower Dir area, which could not be endured.

On possibility of nuclear weapons falling in Taliban hands, Malik said Pakistan's nuclear assets are in safe hands.

According to security sources, two top commanders Qari Quresh and Maulana Shahid, were also killed by the Frontier Corps troops in Maidan area of Lower Dir.

Paramilitary troops and helicopter gunships bombed suspected bases in Lower Dir for a second day running, The News reported.

The Taliban had earlier suspended talks with the government, demanding the army halt its latest operation codenamed "Taur Tandar" against militants.

Indefinite curfew has been imposed in Lal Qila, Islampura, Kal Kot and other adjoining areas.

Security forces regained control of Lal Qila, a key militant stronghold in tehsil Maidan. The area people welcomed the action of security forces. (ANI)