Security forces and law enforcement agencies killed 22 terrorists in a joint intelligence-based operation in Khyber district, while a 10-year-old child was martyred during the exchange of fire, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Friday.

According to ISPR, the operation was launched based on intelligence information, during which security forces engaged the terrorists in a heavy exchange of fire.

Officials said the terrorists, identified as belonging to Fitna-ul-Kharij, were effectively targeted during the operation.

However, they also opened indiscriminate fire, resulting in the death of a minor child.

A large quantity of weapons and ammunition was recovered from the slain terrorists, the statement added.

Security sources said a clearance operation is ongoing in the area to eliminate any remaining threats.

Authorities reiterated that counter-terrorism operations will continue without interruption under the “Commitment to Stability” framework.