ISLAMABAD: Pakistan security forces killed two terrorists, including a wanted ring leader and a suicide bomber, during an intelligence-based operation in Bannu District, the military’s media wing said on Monday.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was conducted on April 19 after reports about the presence of terrorists belonging to what it described as the Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij. During an intense exchange of fire, security forces killed the ring leader, Waheedullah alias Mukhtiar, along with a suicide bomber.

The military said a suicide jacket, weapons and ammunition were recovered from the killed terrorists. Waheedullah was on the most-wanted list for his involvement in several terrorist attacks, including the killing of security personnel and civilians.

ISPR said he was also the main handler of the suicide bomber involved in the February 21 attack in Bannu that led to the martyrdom of Lieutenant Colonel Gul Faraz. The military described the latest operation as revenge for the “heinous act” and said the main perpetrator had been brought to justice.

It added that the timely action by security forces averted a major catastrophe. A sanitization operation is underway to clear the area of any remaining terrorists.

The military said Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies would continue counter-terrorism operations under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” campaign to eliminate what it called foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.

PM praises security forces

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to security forces for successful security operation against Fitna al-Khawarij in Bannu, according to Prime Minister's Office.

The Government of Pakistan is determined to completely eradicate the menace of terrorism from the country, the prime minister said.

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Wanted terrorist, suicide bomber killed in Bannu operation: Pakistan military