Pakistani jets pounded Taliban positions and ground troops moved into the northwestern town of Buner yesterday, 28 April 2009, in an escalation of a military offensive against militants seeking to strengthen their grip in a region close to the country's capital. Zahid Hussain reports for The Times from Islamabad.
Jets and helicopter gunships launched airstrikes to cover the ground troops' advance through Buner's mountainous terrain and to keep Taliban fighters in the neighbouring Swat Valley from bringing in reinforcements.
Residents said that tanks, heavy artillery and hundreds of troops were moving into the town 60 miles (95km) from Islamabad. The troops bombarded Taliban positions in mountains in the Babaji Kandao area of Buner. Officials said that the attack could force thousands of people to flee the area.
Continues at: timesonline.co.uk - Taleban advance is halted by Pakistan's combined air and ground onslaught
Previous related reports from Islamabad:
- Pakistan Taleban break off talks as army assault gains momentum (28 April 2009)
- Many reported dead as Pakistani army attacks Taleban near Swat (27 April 2009)
- Nuclear fears prompt Pakistan to prepare attack on Taleban (25 April 2009)
- Pakistan Taleban take over towns as they move closer to Islamabad (23 April 2009)
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