ISLAMABAD: Security forces killed two militants in the northwestern region of the country, said a statement issued by the military’s media wing, ISPR, late Saturday, after a heavy exchange of fire between Pakistani troops and members of an armed faction.
Pakistan has witnessed a surge in militant attacks after a conglomerate of local militant groups, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), unilaterally called off a cease-fire with the government last November.
Since then, TTP fighters have targeted civilians and security forces in different parts of the country, though the intensity of these attacks has somewhat decreased in recent weeks.
The recent firefight took place in the Jani Khel area of Bannu district which was once a militant stronghold before launched a military operation in June 2014.
“On 03 Jun 23, fire exchange took place between own troops and terrorists in general area Jani Khel, Bannu District,” the ISPR said in the statement, adding the gunbattle resulted in the killing of two militants.
During intense exchange of fire, it added, two Pakistani soldiers also lost their lives.
“Sanitization of the area is being carried out to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area,” the ISPR said. “Armed forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve.”
