Security forces have carried out a targeted operation against Fitna A Khawarij militants in the dense forests of Shahi Tangi in Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing one extremist and destroying their tunnels and hideouts, officials said on Wednesday.

The operation, launched on the basis of a tip-off, focused on a cave hideout deep in the Shahi Tangi forest where troops had laid an ambush, security sources said.

Militants opened fire during the raid, and the security forces responded. The return fire resulted in the death of one militant, while several others were wounded and managed to flee the area, the sources said.

Following the exchange of fire, troops conducted a clearance operation across the area and demolished tunnels, shelters and nearby positions being used by militants.

Authorities also recovered a large quantity of weapons, explosive material and communications equipment during searches.

Intelligence agencies are examining the seized items for leads to identify networks and trace the militants who escaped, security sources said.

The military and other security agencies reiterated their commitment to rooting out terrorism across the country and said operations would continue until all militant cells hiding in the country are eliminated to ensure lasting peace and stability in Pakistan.