Pakistan targets key Taliban bases

Government troops are zeroing in on two major Taliban bases in the South Waziristan regio,n as their offensive pushes deeper into the militant bastion along the Afghan border.

The military says an "important phase" of its three-pronged offensive has begun.

Its troops have now reached the outskirts of Sara-ro-gha and Makeen, two main bases for militants in the treacherous and mountainous terrain.

Makeen is described as "the nerve center" for the militants. Nine militants were killed during Sunday's fighting, taking the militants' death toll to more than 330 in 16 days of fighting. Security officials expect heavy fighting in the coming days.