Security forces killed 13 India‑backed Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists in two separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on November 20-21, the military’s media wing said on Friday.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said a joint intelligence-based operation by security forces and law enforcement agencies in Paharkhel, Lakki Marwat District, resulted in the killing of 10 khawarij following an intense exchange of fire.

Another intelligence-based operation was carried out in Dera Ismail Khan District, where three terrorists were neutralised in an exchange of fire with security forces.

Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who had been involved in attacks on security forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilians.

Sanitisation operations are underway in both districts to remove any remaining threats.

The ISPR said counterterrorism efforts under Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, would continue at full pace to eliminate foreign-backed terrorism from the country.