Pakistani forces kill 14 militants in restive N. Waziristan

Pakistani army said security forces killed 14 militants including some of their important commanders in tribal region North Wazirastan on Tuesday.

"Terrorists were seen dragging some of their dead bodies while fleeing the area," an army statement said.

Pakistani forces have cleared over 90 percent of the areas from the Taliban and other militant groups since they have launched a major offensive in June last year. Nearly 2,800 militants have been killed and their infrastructure destroyed during the offensive.

The forces have stepped up operations in the rugged mountainous areas since fleeing militants took shelter there.

Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Asim Bajwa says security forces, backed by fighter jets, have cleared areas of Shawal Valley in the first phase and a plan is being chalked out to clear the whole area in the second phase.

Tribesmen familiar with the region says Shawal valley has forest and the militants are trying to hide from the aerial bombing under trees. Endi