70 extremists killed in Taliban infighting in South Waziristan

Islamabad, Aug.13 (ANI): At least 70 extremists have reportedly been killed in violent clashes between supporters of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chief Baitullah Mehsud and his rival Turkistan Bhittani.

According to sources, Mehusud's loyalists attacked Bhittanni's men in the Soor Gher area of Jandola in South Waziristan and torched 33 houses and nabbed 15 militants, besides killing seven others.

Intelligence officials said extremists used sophisticated weapons like mortars and anti-aircraft guns to target each other.

However, the casualties could not be verified independently as the attack took place in remote hills of the region.

"The local administration has no writ in the area and we have no information about the number of casualties," The Dawn quoted a senior official, as saying.

Bhittani, who enjoys government's support, has emerged as one of the main rivals of Mehsud in the region. (ANI)