Kathmandu [Nepal], September 4 – Pakistan’s security forces have killed 15 militants who allegedly attempted to enter the country from Afghanistan the military said on Thursday amid continued tensions along the two countries’ border.
The militants were detected on Tuesday while attempting to cross into North Waziristan, a district in north-western Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province according to the military. It said an exchange of fire continued for 36 hours before the militants were killed.
Pakistan’s military identified the group as “Fitna al-Khawarij” a term used by authorities for the Pakistani Taliban or Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). It also alleged that the militants were sponsored by India an accusation New Delhi denies. There was no immediate response from either Kabul or New Delhi.
Acting President Yousaf Raza Gilani praised the security forces for thwarting what he described as an infiltration attempt saying militants backed by India would not be allowed to undermine Pakistan’s peace and stability.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused Afghanistan of providing sanctuary to TTP members while Kabul rejects the allegation.
The latest operation came a day after Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said improved ties with Afghanistan would depend on verifiable, written assurances from Kabul that Afghan territory would not be used for attacks against Pakistan.
China has also been involved in efforts to ease tensions between the two neighbours.
