A Pakistan Army major and a sepoy were martyred during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) targeting Indian-sponsored terrorists in Balochistan’s Mastung district on July 23, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

According to ISPR, the operation was launched on the reported presence of terrorists affiliated with Fitna Al Hindustan, an Indian proxy group.

“During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location and, resultantly, three terrorists were sent to hell,” the statement said.

Tragically, during the intense exchange of fire, Major Zeeyyad Salim Awal, aged 31, a resident of Khushab, and Sepoy Nazam Hussain, aged 22, from Jhelum, embraced martyrdom.

Major Awal was leading his troops from the front and fought gallantly, the military’s media wing added.

“Sanitisation operation is being conducted to eliminate any other Indian sponsored terrorist found in the area, as the security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of Indian Sponsored Terrorism from the country,” the ISPR said.

It further noted that the “sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve” to eradicate terrorism.