15 killed in missile attacks in Khyber

PESHAWAR/LAHORE: At least 15 people were killed and others were injured as eight missiles – apparently fired from Afghanistan – struck an encampment in Tirah Valley of Khyber Agency, a private TV channel reported on late Saturday night.

However, another TV channel reported five killings in the missile strike. The suspected strike in the Khyber Agency could fan fresh anger because it represents a widening of the military offensive in the region. Officials had given differing death tolls in the strike, with one saying that two missiles had hit a house and two trucks loaded with terrorists.

The channel reported that the death toll ranged from five to 15. Such discrepancies are common and are rarely reconciled. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media. The identity of the deceased is not yet known.

Much of the supplies for US and NATO troops in Afghanistan are transported through the region and the convoys have often been attacked. The US does not officially acknowledge firing the missiles, let alone make public where they have hit. ap/daily times monitor