WEB DESK: Security forces killed seven militants during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Dera Ismail Khan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.
According to a statement, the operation targeted members of the “Indian-sponsored militant network Fitna al-Khawarij.” The militants were reportedly involved in several attacks on security forces and law enforcement agencies in the area. During an intense exchange of fire, Major Sibtain Haider, a resident of Quetta, was martyred, the ISPR confirmed.
A large cache of weapons and ammunition was recovered from the site of the operation. The military said a clearance operation was underway to eliminate any remaining militants in the area.
PM Shehbaz hails security forces’ courage in Orakzai, prays for martyrs
“The security forces remain fully committed to eradicating Indian-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan,” the ISPR said, adding that the sacrifices of the country’s “brave sons” strengthen the nation’s resolve in the fight against militancy.
Yesterday, funeral prayers were held at Chaklala Garrison, Rawalpindi, for 11 Pakistan Army personnel including Lt Col Junaid Tariq and Maj Tayyab Rahat, who were martyred in a counterterrorism operation in Orakzai district, the ISPR said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, ministers, and senior civil and military officials attended the ceremony. The martyrs will be laid to rest with full military honours in their hometowns.
According to the ISPR, the soldiers were martyred during a late-night operation on Oct 7–8 that killed 19 terrorists. The prime minister said their sacrifices “will not go in vain.”