ISLAMABAD, Dec. 1 (Xinhua) -- At least eight militants were killed and several others injured during ongoing operations in northwest Pakistan's tribal areas on Tuesday, local TV channel reported.

    According to sources, fresh clashes occurred in Meerakai, Laddha and Asman Manza areas in South Waziristan tribal agency, during which four militants were killed and nine others wounded, the private TV GEO News reported.

    In neighbouring Kurram Agency, Orakzai Agency and Hangu city, four militants were killed during clashes between security forces and militants whereas 18 persons were arrested.

    Pakistan army started operations in adjoining tribal areas near the Afghan border in late November to nab militants coming from South Waziristan due to forces offensive.

    The army said that security forces have controlled major bases of Taliban militants in South Waziristan.

    According to the army statistics, Pakistan army have killed more than 600 militants while 70 soldiers have lost their lives since they launched the ground assault on Oct. 17 in the tribal area, which Washington considers as the center of Taliban and al-Qaeda militants.

Special Report: Pakistani Situation