At least 20 militants killed fighting Pakistani security forces near Afghan border

MIRAN SHAH, Pakistan (AP) - Suspected militants clashed with security forces in northwestern Pakistan on Monday, leaving at least 20 insurgents dead, an army spokesman said.

Maj. Gen. Waheed Arshad said between 20-25 fighters were killed after they attacked two checkpoints manned by security forces near Mir Ali in North Waziristan, a stronghold of pro-Taliban militants.

Two local security officials, who sought anonymity because of the sensitive nature of their job, said at least two soldiers were also killed. Arshad did not immediately confirm those deaths.