An army officer was martyred, and thirteen terrorists were killed during three separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, as reported by the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), on Thursday.

According to the ISPR, the first operation took place in the general area of Jani Khel, Bannu District, where security forces successfully engaged militants, resulting in the death of two terrorists.

In another operation in North Waziristan District, the military neutralised five militants during a fire exchange. Eight others were injured in the ensuing battle. A third operation was conducted in South Waziristan District, where security forces killed six militants.

Tragically, during the intense firefight in South Waziristan, Major Muhammad Awais, a 33-year-old officer from District Narowal, was martyred while leading his troops from the front. His bravery and sacrifice were acknowledged by the ISPR, which praised his gallant leadership.

The military also reported that a sanitisation operation was underway to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the area.

The ISPR concluded with a statement reaffirming Pakistan’s determination to eradicate terrorism, emphasising that the sacrifices of brave soldiers like Major Awais further strengthened the country’s resolve to eliminate the menace of terrorism.