PESHAWAR: Security forces gunned down five terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in North Waziristan tribal district, where one soldier embraced martyrdom, said the army’s media department on Sunday.

In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the security forces conducted the operation after receiving reports about presence of terrorists in the area and subsequently killed the five terrorists. Also, one soldier embraced martyrdom during an intense exchange of fire with the terrorists.

The gunfight between security forces and terrorists took place amid media reports about resumption of peace talks with proscribed militant outfits and release of militants from de-radicalisation centres.

Four of the slain terrorists were later identified as Habib Nawaz alias Shakil, Waheedullah, Abdur Reh­man and Mohammadullah, while identity of the fifth terrorist was being ascertained.

Weapons and ammunition seized from their possession included submachine guns, hand grenades and a large quantity of multiple-calibre rounds.

They were involved in terrorist activities against security forces, targeted killing and kidnapping for ransom, according to the ISPR statement.

During the intense firefight, 28-year-old Sepoy Shabbir Ahmed, a resident of Quetta, after having fought gallantly and inflicting casualties upon the terrorists, embraced shahadat, the ISPR stated.

The statement added that the army was determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of brave soldiers further strengthened the army’s resolve. Last week, security forces killed a terrorist and foiled his attempt to enter a military post in North Waziristan’s Dossali tehsil by hurling a hand grenade.

Published in Dawn, February 21st, 2022