RAWALPINDI: Security forces killed eight militants during an operation in Hangu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while six security personnel, including two officers, were martyred in an exchange of fire, the military’s media wing said on Sunday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), an exchange of fire took place between security forces and militants during the movement of a security forces convoy in Hangu.
The forces effectively responded and killed eight militants affiliated with Fitna al-Khawarij, which the ISPR said was operating with Indian support.
The ISPR said two officers leading their troops from the front, along with four other personnel, embraced martyrdom during the intense exchange of fire.
The martyred officers were identified as 23-year-old Captain Abu Zar Farooq, a resident of Gujranwala district, and 22-year-old Lieutenant Shiraz Babar, a resident of Chakwal district.According to the military, both officers fought bravely alongside four soldiers and sacrificed their lives in defence of the country.
A clearance operation is currently underway in the area to eliminate any other militants who may still be present, the ISPR said.
The military’s media wing said security forces and law-enforcement agencies would continue counterterrorism operations under the government’s “Stability” framework with full momentum to eliminate terrorism receiving external support and assistance.
The ISPR said the sacrifices of the martyred officers and soldiers further strengthen the resolve of the security forces to protect the country at all costs.