The Pakistani army claimed another success in its South Waziristan offensive, saying its troops had taken control of the Taliban's operational nerve centre.

Military spokesman Maj. Gen. Athar Abbas told the Dawn newspaper security forces were in control of Sararogha despite fierce resistance and were conducting a search and clearance operation.

Last week, the military said security forces, which began the offensive Oct. 17, had taken Kotkai, the hometown of Pakistan Taliban chief Hakimullah Mehsud.

Abbas said the removal of the Taliban from its operational base would lead to a quick disintegration of the group, Dawn reported. He said the Taliban may claim making a "tactical withdrawal," but its ability to carry out organized attacks had weakened considerably.

The military said 21 militants were killed and two suspects captured Monday and Tuesday while the army had lost one soldier.