Security forces killed 23 terrorists belonging to the India-backed Fitna al-Khwarij network in two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur and Bannu districts on November 16 and 17 November, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.

According to the ISPR, troops launched a major intelligence-driven operation in Bajaur after confirming the presence of the militants.

The hideout was “effectively engaged,” resulting in the killing of 11 terrorists, including ringleader Sajjad, also known as Abuzar.

In a similar intelligence-based action in Bannu district, security forces neutralised 12 more Khawarij terrorists.

The ISPR said sanitisation and clearance operations were underway in both areas to hunt down any remaining Indian-sponsored terrorists.

It added that the ongoing counterterrorism campaign under the vision of “Azm-e-Istehkam,” approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, would continue at full pace.

Security forces reaffirmed their resolve to eliminate foreign-backed terrorism and protect national security at all costs.