ISLAMABAD, July 6 (KUNA) -- A key Taliban commander was reportedly killed in a US drone strike in Pakistani tribal region of North Waziristan on Tuesday night, it was reported here Wednesday.
The news of key commander's killing came as security forces clashed with militants in the same area, giving rise to rumors that the military has launched an operation in the agency. However, no official confirmation was yet available.
Citing unnamed official sources, local news channel Dawn reported that militant commander Saifullah, who was close to Osama Bin Laden, was among four militants killed in a US drone strike in Mir Ali district of North Waziristan agency.
Earlier, in the morning, security forces exchanged heavy fire with militants in Miramshah, the main city of the agency. Security sources told KUNA that militants fired rockets at security check posts in the area. However, there were no casualty reports available yet.
The clashes led to rumors that the forces have launched operation in the agency at the pressure of the United States. The US has been demanding the military to launch operation in North Waziristan. However, Pakistan has rejected to succumb to pressure. The forces, although, launched operation in Upper Kurram agency on Tuesday, forcing hundreds of families to flee to safer areas. (end) amn.hb KUNA 061758 Jul 11NNNN