Army-militants clashes erupt in Darra Adam Khel

PESHAWAR - Amidst resuming of the negotiations between the government and alleged militants, headed by Baitullah Mehsud, clashes between miscreants and security forces again erupted in the narrow tribal strip of Darra Adam Khel on Sunday. The authorities have claimed arrest of two militants, who sustained injuries during the clashes. However, there are unconfirmed reports of several casualties from both the sides. The clashes erupted when the militants allegedly opened fires at a convoy of the armed forces near the village Sheeni in Darra Adam Khel. In retaliation, the security forces targeted the hideouts of the militants with heavy and sophisticated weapons. During the clashes, a primary school in Abdullah Jan village was also bombed as, according to army official, several militants were hiding in it. Later, the firing stopped but the authorities have dispatched more personnel of the security forces to the area. The area is now presently witnessing a curfew-like situation. It may be mentioned here that couple of days ago, the alleged militants had set on fire several portions, classrooms and blocks of Government Degree College at Dara Adam Khel. On the other hand, negotiations between Baitullah Mehsud-les militants and government authorities resumed after a week-long beak. Maulvi Omar, spokesman of Baitullah Mehsud, has confirmed the talks resumption but said that no one can ensure success of the negotiations unless their demand for troops pullout from Waziristan, Swat and Dara Adam Khel is not met.

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