The New Nation - Internet Edition

AFP, Islamabad

At least ten Taliban militants were killed in exchange of fire with Pakistani troops in a northwestern valley rocked by a violent campaign for Islamic law, an official said. The exchange of fire erupted after militants refused to surrender in Sarsanai area in the Matta district of the valley.

"A fire fight began after militants refused to lay down arms and leave the area. Resultantly, 10 rebels were killed," chief military spokesman Major General Athar Abbas told AFP.

Separately, one soldier was killed and another wounded when militants attacked a paramilitary Frontier Corps checkpost in Tutanobandai area in the Matta district.