Security forces killed as many as 40 militants in a major operation in northwestern Pakistan's tribal region, an army statement said Thursday.

"Security Forces have carried out operations in the areas of Spinkai Raghazai, Nawazkot and surrounding areas of Tiarza in South Waziristan Agency," said the statement.

The above-mentioned areas have been cleared of militants' strongholds and hideouts. "Reportedly, 40 miscreants have been killed in last 24 hours and 30 miscreants have been apprehended while many injured."

The statement said that eight Security Forces personnel were killed while 32 others suffered injuries in the operation.

Security forces launched a major operation against in South Waziristan on Wednesday. They engaged militants with artillery and intense clashes erupted between security forces and militants.

The army has vowed to clear South Waziristan of militants. 

(Xinhua News Agency January 24, 2008)