ISLAMABAD: Security forces killed 11 terrorists in separate intelligence-led operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, according to state-run Radio Pakistan.
The state broadcaster, quoting security sources, reported that the militants belonged to Fitna al-Khwarij (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP) and Fitna al-Hindustan (Balochistan Liberation Army or BLA).
In Bannu, security forces conducted an operation, killing two TTP terrorists and recovering weapons and ammunition, Radio Pakistan reported.
Five more TTP terrorists were killed during an operation in the Ladha area of South Waziristan, according to the report.
Four BLA terrorists were killed in the Sasool area of Khuzdar district in the southwestern province of Balochistan.
Security forces effectively targeted the terrorists with the assistance of a quadcopter, according to Radio Pakistan.
President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for their successful operations, saying the elimination of terrorist elements operating with foreign support is essential for national security and lasting peace.
“Pakistan will be rid of the scourge of terrorism and expresses pride in the professional capabilities and successes of security forces and law enforcement agencies,” he said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the security forces. In a statement issued from the Prime Minister's Office on Thursday, he said, "The entire nation stands with security forces in the war against terrorism."
"We are determined to completely eradicate all forms of terrorism from the country."
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also paid tribute to the security forces, saying timely action foiled the terrorists’ plans. He said the nation remains united against terrorism and stands in solidarity with the security forces.
The latest operations come days after the military’s media wing said security forces eliminated 49 terrorists in separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan on Aug 21.