Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the operations were carried out in Datta Khel, Spin Wam and Bannu, where security forces struck militant hideouts and dismantled an underground network of tunnels and bunkers.

Among those killed was wanted militant commander Jan Mir, also known as Toor Saqib, on whose head the government had placed a bounty, ISPR said.

Jan Mir was involved in attacks on security forces and the killing of civilians, it added.

Large quantities of weapons, ammunition and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were recovered from the targeted locations, according to the statement.

ISPR said all 23 killed Khawarij were operating under Indian sponsorship, reiterating Islamabad’s longstanding position that New Delhi supports militant networks active against Pakistan.

Operations would continue until terrorism is completely eliminated, ISPR said, adding that security forces and law enforcement agencies remained committed to eradicating militancy under the ongoing Azm-e-Istehkam operation.