Pakistan ? Pakistan’s military said Saturday it killed at least 72 militants in three days of fighting near the Afghan border, where Taliban and al-Qaida militants are believed to be hiding.

The army has intensified ground and air attacks in an effort to flush out Taliban and local militants from the Bajur tribal region.

“We killed 72 militants, while eight of our soldiers died in Bajur since Wednesday,” Maj. Murad Khan told The Associated Press, adding the military was still targeting militant positions in various parts of Bajur.

Khan Mohammed, an area resident, said the military was facing “unusual resistance” from militants.

“The exchange of fire between the army and Taliban is still continuing,” he said.