ISLAMABAD: Pakistani security forces killed 10 terrorists in two separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the military said on Friday, as part of the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign, Azm-e-Istehkam.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operations were carried out on Thursday in South Waziristan and Dir districts, targeting Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khwarij.
Eight militants were killed after attempting to attack security forces' check posts in the Azam Warsak area of South Waziristan district.
"A group of khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy, Fitna al-Khwarij attempted to attack Security Forces Check Posts in general area Azam Warsak," the ISPR said, adding that the assault "was effectively thwarted by own troops."
The military said the remaining two terrorists were killed in a separate operation in Dir district.
According to the ISPR, weapons and ammunition were recovered from the terrorists, who had been involved in "numerous terrorist activities in the area."
The military said clearance operations were continuing to eliminate any remaining terrorists.
"Sanitization operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Kharji found in the area," the ISPR said, adding that Pakistan's counterterrorism campaign under the Azm-e-Istehkam initiative would continue "at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country."
President lauds security forces
According to a statement issued by the President's Office, President Asif Ali Zardari said the nation stood with its "brave security forces and law enforcement agencies" and valued their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
"The malicious designs of terrorists operating under Indian patronage will be thwarted at all costs," he said.
PM vows to continue anti-terror operations
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the nation was proud of the professionalism, courage and sacrifices of its personnel.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, the PM said, "The nefarious designs of elements spreading terrorism under Indian patronage will be thwarted at all costs."
He added that operations against militants under Azm-e-Istehkam would continue with full resolve until terrorism was completely eradicated.
"The government and the entire nation stand shoulder to shoulder with our security forces in the fight against terrorism," the prime minister said.
