In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the attempted incursions were effectively repelled, with eight militants killed in an exchange of fire in Mohmand District and five more neutralised in North Waziristan.

Security forces said that the terrorists were affiliated with “Fitna al-Khawarij” adding that they were operating with foreign backing. It added that the incidents once again highlighted gaps in border management on the Afghan side.

The statement reiterated Pakistan’s demand that Afghan Taliban authorities ensure their territory is not used for activities against Pakistan.

Security forces, it said, remain resolute in defending the country’s borders, with counterterrorism operations continuing under the Azm-e-Istehkam campaign.

A clearance operation is currently underway in the affected areas to locate and eliminate any remaining militants, the ISPR added.