Pak Army to stay in Swat to hunt down high value targets

Islamabad, June 5 (ANI): The Pakistan Army will stay on in Swat to hunt down high value targets and clear the remaining hideouts and sanctuaries of terrorists in the valley.

Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani stated this while addressing the 119th Corps Commanders' Conference at General Headquarters on Thursday.

According to informed sources, General Kayani said that the tide in Swat has 'decisively turned' as major population centres and roads leading to the valley had been largely cleared of organised resistance by the terrorists.

He said that the Army would continue to carry out operations on a limited scale to clear remaining hideouts and sanctuaries, adding that it would stay on in Swat to provide security to the people and tackle isolated incidents of violence.

The Chief of Army Staff thanked the people of Pakistan and the media for their wholehearted support during the ongoing operation.

He reiterated the Army's resolve to defeat the terrorists, and appreciated the morale, professionalism and dedication of the troops engaged in fighting terrorism and violent extremism.

General Kayani also paid rich tribute to the sacrifices and heroic resilience of the IDPs in sustaining difficulties for the sake of peace and stability in their homeland.

"We can't afford to leave our displaced brethren in the lurch at this critical time," The Nation quoted him, as saying.

General Kayani expressed the hope that the government would be able to immediately launch a robust administrative effort on the heels of successful military operation, making it possible for the IDPs to return as soon as possible.

The security forces have accelerated war against militants in upper parts of the district from Thursday and took control of main road right from Ambela to Pir Baba, official sources confirmed. (ANI)