KHAR: A Pakistan government administrator says about 22,000 civilians have fled intense fighting between government troops and militants in a troubled tribal region near the Afghan border.

The unpublicized offensive in Mohmand began on January 27 to rout militants accused of targeting security forces and orchestrating bombings in the region.

Roshan Khan Mehsud says the estimated 22,000 displaced are now living in camps away from the troubled area and are being provided with food and aid.

He says troops backed by jets and helicopter gunships have so far killed nearly 100 insurgents, and that there have been some casualties on the side of government troops.

The military on Friday confirmed the offensive but provided few details.