Pak Army takes over Shamsi airbase after Americans leave

  US planes in Shamsi airbase

The Pakistan Army today took over Shamsi airbase in the country’s southwest after it was vacated by U.S. forces in line with a deadline set by the government following a cross-border NATO attack that killed two dozen Pakistani soldiers.The last flight carrying U.S. personnel and equipment had departed from Shamsi airbase in Balochistan province and the facility had been “completely vacated” by the Americans, the Inter-

The airbase is now under the control of Pakistani forces.Pakistan had earlier set December 11 as the deadline for the U.S. to vacate Shamsi airbase, reportedly used by CIA-operated drones that target militants in the country’s restive tribal belt.An America flag that was previously hoisted at the airbase was lowered today.The U.S. personnel had removed radars and other sensitive equipment from the base.

Much of the gear and at least five drones were transferred to Afghanistan.