ISLAMABAD: The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday said that the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) commander of Miramshah, Umer was killed by security forces on the outskirts of Miramshah the previous night.
In a statement issued today, the ISPR stated that the civilian population has been evacuated from North Waziristan where the Zarb-i-Azb operation is targeting local and foreign militants.
"To make sure that there are no innocent civilians still left in the area, announcements are being made for any stranded tribals who may have stayed back for any reasons, to leave also," read the statement.
It also said that after the surrender of 19 terrorists, more terrorists may lay down arms.
Pakistan Air Force Jet aircraft destroyed six terrorist hideouts on the outskirts of Mirali, killing 11 militants, read the press release.
Attacks were also carried out on Saturday morning by artillery fire, tanks and heavy weapons outside Miramshah, killing seven terrorists.
One prominent Al Qaeda commander has been arrested while trying to flee the area, the ISPR said.
Initial interrogation reveal that the militant is an expert at Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and suicide belt manufacturing.
Meanwhile, three terrorists were also arrested by security forces while they were trying to cross the Indus River near Mianwali and all spots along the river were subsequently sealed to prevent escape, it added.