13 Indian-backed terrorists killed in KP counter-terror operations: ISPR

Thirteen terrorists affiliated with the Indian-sponsored group Fitna Al Khwarij were killed in separate intelligence-based operations carried out by Pakistan’s security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on 13 and 14 January, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.

According to the military’s media wing, security forces conducted a targeted operation in the Bannu district following intelligence reports of terrorists’ presence. In the ensuing gunfight, eight terrorists were neutralised.

Another operation in the Kurram district led to a further five terrorists being killed after an intense exchange of fire.

The ISPR added that sanitisation operations are ongoing to eliminate any remaining foreign-backed terrorists in the region.

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These actions form part of Pakistan’s sustained counter-terrorism campaign, “Azm-e-Istehkam,” approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, aimed at eliminating foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.

Security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to continuing operations at full pace to ensure the menace of cross-border terrorism is completely eradicated.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has paid tribute to security forces for the successful operation against terrorists in region.

Under the vision of “Azm-e-Istehkam,” the security forces are achieving significant successes against terrorism, the prime minister said, adding that the entire nation stands with Pakistan’s armed forces in this war against terrorism.