RAWALPINDI: Security forces killed six militants during an intelligence-based operation in the Zarkani area of Dera Ismail Khan on October 24, 2026, while two Pakistan Army soldiers embraced martyrdom during an intense exchange of fire, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
In a statement, the military’s media wing said the operation was launched following intelligence reports about the presence of militants in the area. Security forces effectively engaged the targets and killed six militants affiliated with Fitna al-Khawarij, whom the ISPR described as Indian-sponsored.
The ISPR identified the martyred soldiers as Naik Ghulam Murtaza and Sepoy Taseer Ahmed, who fought bravely during the exchange of fire.
Naik Ghulam Murtaza, aged 36, belonged to Gujrat district, while 30-year-old Sepoy Taseer Ahmed was a resident of Talagang district.
According to the ISPR, weapons and ammunition were recovered from the militants. The statement said the killed militants had been involved in multiple terrorist attacks targeting security forces and law enforcement agencies, as well as the killing of innocent civilians.
A clearance operation is underway in the area to eliminate any remaining militants, the military’s media wing said.
The ISPR added that counterterrorism operations would continue at full pace under the national action plan guidelines approved by the Federal Apex Committee and in line with the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam.
The stated objective is to eliminate terrorism backed and supported by external elements from the country.
The ISPR said the sacrifices of soldiers who lay down their lives in defence of Pakistan further strengthen the nation’s resolve to eradicate terrorism.