RAWALPINDI (MNN); Pakistan’s security forces have killed 22 terrorists linked to “Fitna al-Khawarij” during an intelligence-based operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu district, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was launched on November 24 after credible intelligence indicated the presence of Indian-backed militants associated with the proscribed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.
Troops surrounded the hideout and, following an intense exchange of fire, eliminated all 22 terrorists. A subsequent sanitization sweep confirmed no remaining threats in the area.
The ISPR reiterated that the nationwide counterterrorism initiative “Azm-e-Istehkam,” endorsed by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan, will continue at full pace until foreign-sponsored militancy is eradicated.
President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for the successful action, calling their response timely and effective. He reaffirmed that eliminating Indian-sponsored terrorists remains a top state priority.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also commended the swift and decisive operation, saying Pakistan’s forces are securing major gains under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam.
He stressed that the nation stands firmly with its armed forces and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism in all its forms.
Security officials say operations will continue to ensure lasting peace and stability across the country.
