20 militants killed in Pak's Bajaur: Govt

At least 20 Islamist militants were killed in a clash with Pakistani security forces in Bajaur, a known sanctuary for al Qaeda and Taliban militants, a government official said.

At least 20 Islamist militants were killed in a clash with Pakistani security forces in Bajaur, a known sanctuary for al Qaeda and Taliban militants on the Afghan border, a government official said on Tuesday.

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The fighting erupted about 25 km (15 miles) east of Khar, the main town of the region, on Monday evening after militants attacked several security checkposts there.

"The exchange of fire lasted for about nine hours and we have reports that at least 20 militants were killed," Mohammad Jameel, a senior government official in Bajaur, told Reuters by telephone.