ISLAMABAD

At least 16 Pakistani soldiers were killed as terrorists attacked a check post in northwestern Pakistan near the Afghan border, the military said late Saturday.

The Inter-Services Public Relations said in a statement that on Friday night terrorists “attempted to attack a security forces check post in general area Makeen, South Waziristan District.”

The attack was repelled and eight terrorists were killed, but 16 soldiers also lost their lives, according to the military.

“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve,” said the statement.

Earlier this month, Pakistan Army said at least 43 terrorists were killed during intelligence-based military operations in the country’s northwestern and southwestern provinces.

Islamabad claims terrorists from the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan are based in Afghanistan, from where they carry out attacks in Pakistan. Kabul, however, denies the accusation.