HANGU — Security forces killed eight militants in a firefight in Hangu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan’s military said.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the clash took place between security forces and militants in the Hangu area.
The military described the militants as members of Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khawarij. This is the term Pakistani authorities use for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Six Security Personnel Killed
ISPR said six security personnel were killed during the intense exchange of fire.
The dead included two officers and four other personnel. Captain Abuzar Farooq and Lieutenant Sheraz Babar were among those killed.
Captain Abuzar Farooq was 23 years old and came from Gujranwala district.
Lieutenant Sheraz Babar was 22 and belonged to Chakwal district.
ISPR said both officers were leading their troops from the front when they were killed.
According to images released by ISPR, the other four victims included three soldiers and one non-combatant.
Sanitisation Operation Underway
Security forces have launched a sanitisation operation in the area.
The operation aims to locate and eliminate any other militants who may still be present, ISPR said.
The military also said its broader counterterrorism campaign will continue across the country.
