Security forces killed seven militants during an intelligence-based operation in Hangu district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on August 7.
The operation targeted militants affiliated with what the military described as the India-backed Fitna Al Khawarij.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations, security forces launched the operation after receiving information about militants present in the area.
The troops effectively targeted the militants’ hideout, leading to an intense exchange of fire during the operation.
As a result, all seven militants were killed during the exchange, according to the military’s media wing.
However, the operation also resulted in the martyrdom of an army captain who was leading his troops from the front.
Captain Hamza Akram Martyred During Operation
The ISPR identified the martyred officer as 27-year-old Captain Hamza Akram, who was pursuing the militants during the operation.
Captain Hamza, who belonged to Narowal district, sacrificed his life while performing his duties during the security operation.
His death marked a significant loss for the security forces engaged in counterterrorism operations across the region.
According to the military, the officer continued leading his troops while pursuing the militants before sustaining fatal injuries.
Militants Accused of Attacks on Security Forces and Civilians
The military said the militants killed during the Hangu operation had been involved in several attacks.
Their alleged activities included attacks against security forces, law enforcement personnel and civilians, according to the ISPR.
The military also linked the militants to the killing of citizens in different incidents.
During the intense exchange of fire, the militants reportedly took shelter inside a mosque.
The ISPR said their decision to enter the place of worship violated the sanctity of the mosque.
Security forces subsequently recovered weapons, ammunition and other equipment from the militants following the operation.
Sanitisation Operation Continues in Hangu
Following the operation, security forces launched a sanitisation operation across the area to search for any remaining militants.
The operation aims to ensure that no other militants remain present in the surrounding area, according to the ISPR.
Meanwhile, security forces continue efforts to secure the area after the exchange of fire.
The latest operation reflects the continuing counterterrorism efforts against militant groups operating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Security Forces Reaffirm Counterterrorism Resolve
The military reiterated that security forces would continue counterterrorism operations without interruption.
According to the ISPR, these operations will continue until the complete elimination of terrorism being carried out with foreign support and assistance.
The military also highlighted the sacrifices made by security personnel during the ongoing fight against terrorism.
“The sacrifices of security personnel” in the fight against terrorism further strengthen the nation’s resolve to protect Pakistan’s security and peace, the ISPR said.
The Hangu operation therefore ended with seven militants killed, weapons recovered and a sanitisation operation still underway.
At the same time, the martyrdom of Captain Hamza Akram underscored the risks faced by personnel leading counterterrorism operations on the ground.
