Security forces kill 22 militants in Bannu intelligence operation

WEB DESK: Pakistan’s security forces carried out an intelligence-based operation in Bannu after receiving reports about the presence of what officials described as an “Indian-backed militant proxy network,” the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.

According to the ISPR, troops came under heavy fire as they closed in on the suspected hideout, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire. The khawarij were engaged and overpowered during the operation.

ISPR said a clearance sweep of the surrounding area was under way to ensure no remaining militants were present. “Security forces remain fully committed to eliminating terrorism being supported from abroad,” the statement added.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif applauded the operation, congratulating the forces for what he called a major success against the militant network. He praised the killing of 22 militants, saying the action demonstrated the security forces’ “relentless resolve” in the fight against terrorism.

“Our forces are achieving significant victories against those who threaten Pakistan’s peace,” the prime minister said. He added that the nation “stands firmly with the Pakistan Army in the war against terrorism.”

PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the government’s determination to wipe out all forms of militancy, emphasising that counterterrorism operations would continue until peace is fully restored.