ISPR says terrorists linked to ‘Indian proxy Fitna Al Khwarij’ killed in five encounters in Bajaur, Bannu and DI Khan
Pakistani army soldiers. PHOTO: ISPR/FILE
Pakistani security forces killed at least 13 terrorists during a series of intelligence operations carried out on March 6 and 7 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, the army said on Sunday.
These operations were part of a “relentless anti-terrorism campaign”, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Pakistani authorities use the term Fitna Al Khwarij to refer to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
According to ISPR, during an intelligence operation in Bajaur district, troops actually attacked a terrorist site and after an intense exchange of fire, five terrorists were killed.
In two other encounters in Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan districts, three terrorists belonging to ‘Indian proxy Fitna Al Khwarij’ were successfully neutralized, the statement said.
Simultaneously, in two separate engagements in Khyber and South Waziristan districts, troops killed five more terrorists.
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Arms and ammunition were also recovered from the slain terrorists, who the Army said had been actively involved in many terrorist activities in the area.
The army said the operations were being carried out as Pakistan continues to face emerging challenges along its border with Afghanistan.
“Pakistan’s security forces remain resolute and steadfast in their commitment to defend the country’s borders,” the statement said.
He added that disinfection operations were underway to eliminate any further ‘India-sponsored Kharji’ found in the area.
The Army said the “relentless anti-terrorism campaign under the vision ‘Azm e Istehkam’ (as approved by the Supreme Federal Committee on National Action Plan)” carried out by security and law enforcement agencies would continue in full swing “to eliminate the menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism from the country”.
