ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Army has taken over anti-terrorism operations in Swat, while all other security apparatus, including FC troops have been subordinated under its command.
Talking exclusively to Online, Director General ISPR, Maj. Gen. Waheed Arshad disclosed that Army gunship helicopters have targeted the extremist positions in Swat killing many militants, whose exact size cannot be discerned.
He said that there were no Army losses since land forces were not being used, nor was any land operation being conducted, while all possible resources including use of air force would be optimally utilized to eradicate terrorists militants.
He said Army would however operate with cooperation and coordination of Provincial and district governments, who would be always taken into confidence.
Replying to a question he said that it was impossible to recount the exact number of terrorist and militant elements in the troubled region, but there would be no rest until all have been eliminated.
"Despite the fact that a large scale operation has been eschewed, still even air power might be utilized according to circumstances." He elaborated.
Meanwhile at least four militants were killed and three others injured as a result of operation carried out by Pakistani Gunship Helicopters and shelling here in tension grip Swat Valley on Monday.
It was the first operation since the proclamation of emergency, in which gunship copters targeted the militant’s hideouts in different areas of Swat Valley.
As a result, four militants were killed and three other injured. There are also reports that two of the injured, Bhukhtta Khan and Sher Ali were shifted to Matta Hospital.
While on the other hand, militants accused Security Forces that it has targeted residential areas in surroundings of Charbagh and Kot.
After the firing Matta Bazar, Khawaza Khaila and Charbagh Bazaars were completed shut down. People have been limited to their homes.
"Whatever steps are necessary will be taken now that the army has assumed the lead role in Swat," army spokesman Maj. Gen. Waheed Arshad said a day after President Pervez Musharraf announced that the army will take control of operations from paramilitary forces.
"We’ll make sure that extremism in that area is defeated and that those criminals are brought to book," Arshad added.
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