Pakistani intelligence officials say American drone-fired missiles have slammed into militant hideouts close to the Afghan border in North Waziristan, killing 12 suspected militants.

According to AP, the strikes Friday, Aug 24 were the fourth in the span of a week, despite repeated Pakistani protests.

The officials said each of the three compounds was hit by two missiles. They said militants often use these hideouts when they are crossing into Afghanistan.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to reporters.