Pakistani military shows off captured Taliban base

AP on Yahoo ^ | 5/22/09 | Chris Brummitt - ap

[NormsRevenge]

BANAI BABA ZIARAT, Pakistan – A Pakistani flag now flies over army troops dug in on a strategic ridge that until two days ago was held by the Taliban, a base where militants trained fighters, built tunnels and equipped caves with electricity and air vents.

The takeover of the highest Taliban stronghold in the Swat Valley by troops who stormed up its jagged, rubble-strewn slopes is evidence of the success of Pakistan's month-old army offensive. The action has been welcomed by the United States, which fears the nuclear-armed country is capitulating to the militants.

...

Several residents pointed to the mountains and warned that the Taliban were not far away.

[NormsRevenge]

The Smoke a Talibunny Lamp rEmains Lit!

Giddyup!

[NormsRevenge]

A Pakistani helicopter flies near the Baine Baba Ziarat mountain in Swat district, during a trip organized by the army May 22, 2009. Pakistani tribesmen near Swat are raising militias to prevent Taliban from expanding their influence in the region, a senior military commander said on Friday. REUTERS/Mian Khursheed

Good luck and hunting, militias!

[NormsRevenge]

Soldiers and journalists are seen atop the Baine Baba Ziarat mountain in Swat district, during a trip organized by the army, May 22, 2009. Pakistani tribesmen near Swat are raising militias to prevent Taliban from expanding their influence in the region, a senior military commander said on Friday. REUTERS/Mian Khursheed (PAKISTAN POLITICS MILITARY)

[2banana]

That can't be a military base - I don't see a chow hall, base pool, bowling alley, PX, clothing sales, etc.

[BenLurkin]

First photo:

[SunkenCiv]

BBC source, shows small photo of the Paki flag flying on the ridge:

Pakistan army vows Swat victory