High Value Targets Being Hunted: Gen. Ashfaq

Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 7:12 pm

High Value Targets Being Hunted: Gen. Ashfaq RAWALPINDI: The 119th Corps Commanders’ Conference was held at General Headquarters today on Thursday with Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani in chair.

The participants were given a comprehensive briefing on the external and internal security challenges facing Pakistan.

On the occasion the COAS dilated in detail on the Swat operations. He stated that tide in Swat has ‘decisively turned,’ major population centers and roads leading to the valley have been largely cleared of organized resistance by the terrorists.

The meeting was told that High Value Targets were being aggressively hunted, to clear remaining hideouts and sanctuaries, the Army will continue to carryout operations at a limited scale, adding that the troops will stay in Swat to provide security to the people.

COAS paid rich tributes to the sacrifices and heroic resilience of the internally displaced people in sustaining the difficulties for the sake of peace and stability in their homeland.

COAS said that we can not afford to leave our displaced brethren in lurch at this critical time. He urged all to work hand in glove to garner maximum support for the relief and rehabilitation.

He expressed hope that the Government will be able to immediately launch a robust administrative effort on the heels of successful military operation, making it possible for the IDPs to return as soon as possible.

He stressed that a civilian administrative surge is required for creating conductive environment for the return of IDPs. Army will provide whatever assistance is required. We will spare no effort towards this end.

COAS thanked the people of Pakistan and the media for their whole hearted support during the ongoing operation. He reiterated Army’s resolve to defeat the terrorists.

COAS also appreciated the morale, professionalism and dedication of the troops engaged in fighting the terrorism and violent extremism.

He lauded the sacrifices being rendered by our officers and soldiers alike in the line of duty.