MIRAN SHAH, Pakistan (AP) – Pakistani helicopter gunships opened fire after pro-Taliban tribesmen traded mortar and gun fire with security forces near the Afghan border yesterday. At least 22 militants were killed, the interior minister said.

Intercepts of radio communications between militants involved in the fighting in the towns of Miran Shah and Mir Ali in North Waziristan tribal region suggested scores of their fighters had died, security and intelligence officials said on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorised to comment to the media.

Interior minister, Aftab Khan Sherpao, told The Associated Press that he could only confirm that 22 militants had died, but added that there were conflicting reports that suggested a higher death toll. Sherpao had no details about casualties among security forces.

The officials said at least three paramilitary soldiers were killed and about a dozen wounded, most in vehicle ambushes. The officials said helicopter gunships had been used to target the tribal fighters’ positions.

The fighting took place about 300 kilometers (190 miles) southwest of Islamabad, where U.S. President George W. Bush on Saturday made a 24-hour visit and declared his solidarity with Pakistan in the war on terror.