ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, September 27, SPA -- Pakistan's security forces pounded militant positions near strategic areas in a tribal region bordering Afghanistan, killing 25 suspected insurgents in a new round of a military offensive that also left three troops dead, officials said. On Friday, security forces cleared militant compounds near Bajur's Rashakai and Loi Sam areas, army spokesman Maj. Murad Khan said, confirming the death toll. He said two of the three soldiers killed were officers, according to a report of the Associated Press. The weeks-long military operation in the Bajur tribal region has already killed more than 1,000 militants and some 66 soldiers, and officials say it could be another two months before the militant stronghold is under government control.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/593616