Eight militants killed in Bannu operation; one major, two soldiers martyred: ISPR

An Army major and two soldiers were martyred during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Bakka Khel area of Bannu District on Wednesday, while eight militants were also killed, according to the military's media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Security forces launched the operation after receiving reports of militant presence in the area. During the mission, troops engaged the militant hideout, resulting in the elimination of eight militants and injuring seven others, ISPR reported on Wednesday. 

Major Atif Khalil, leading his team from the front, was martyred during an intense exchange of fire alongside two of his men, Naik Azad Ullah and Lance Naik Ghazanfar Abbas. 

The ISPR commended their bravery, stating, “During the conduct of the operation, our troops effectively engaged Khwarij’s location, as a result of which eight terrorists were sent to hell.”

A sanitisation operation is currently underway to ensure no remaining militants are left in the area. The statement from ISPR reaffirmed the resolve of Pakistan's security forces to eradicate terrorism, stating that such sacrifices only strengthen their commitment to protect the nation.