Pakistan security forces have claimed to have killed 12 militants in Shawal area of North Waziristan while advancing to capture strategic points in the valley adjoining the Afghan border.
The Dawn reported that the suspected militants, including a commander identified as Hezbollah, were killed when planes bombed and destroyed three hideouts.
Hezbollah was affiliated with the Sheheryar group of Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan.
The claims could not be verified through independent sources.
Officials said that ground troops were advancing into the militants' strongholds and had captured Kund Ghar and Jung Top so far.
The offensive was launched last week after Army chief General Raheel Sharif ordered troops to eliminate the hideouts.
