Pakistan’s security forces have killed seven Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) terrorists—also referred to as Khawarij—during an intelligence-based operation in Dera Ismail Khan’s Kulachi area, the military's media wing said on Monday.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement said the operation was conducted on credible intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists belonging to Fitna al Khawarij, described by the military as an Indian-sponsored proxy group.

During the operation, troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ hideout, resulting in an intense firefight.

Seven khawarij neutralised

The ISPR confirmed that seven Khawarij were killed during the exchange. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who, according to the military, were actively involved in multiple terrorist activities in the area.

During the firefight, Naik Yasir Khan, aged 34 and a resident of District Mardan, was martyred while fighting gallantly.

The ISPR paid tribute to the soldier, calling him a “brave son of the soil” who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Clearance operation underway

The military said a sanitisation operation is currently ongoing to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the area.

Security forces are conducting thorough searches to ensure the region is cleared of any further threats.

Reaffirming its resolve, the ISPR said Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to eradicating foreign-sponsored terrorism.

The statement added that the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign under “Azm-e-Istehkam”, approved by the Federal Apex Committee as part of the National Action Plan, will continue “with full force” to eliminate militancy from the country.