Security forces killed seven militants affiliated with the India-backed Fitna Al Khawarij during an intelligence-based operation in Hangu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the military’s media wing said on Saturday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was conducted on August 7 on the reported presence of militants in the area.

Security forces effectively targeted the militants’ hideout, triggering an intense exchange of fire during which all seven militants were killed.

The ISPR said 27-year-old Captain Hamza Akram was martyred during the operation while leading his troops from the front and pursuing the militants.

Captain Hamza, who hailed from Narowal district, sacrificed his life in the line of duty, according to the statement.

It said the slain militants were involved in several incidents of attacks against security forces, law enforcement personnel and civilians, as well as the killing of citizens.

According to the ISPR, during the exchange of fire, the militants took shelter inside a mosque, violating the sanctity of the place of worship.

Weapons, ammunition and other equipment were recovered from the militants, the ISPR said.

A sanitisation operation is under way in the area to eliminate any other militants who may still be present, the ISPR said.

The military reiterated that security forces would continue counterterrorism operations without interruption until the complete elimination of terrorism being carried out with foreign support and assistance.

“The sacrifices of security personnel” in the fight against terrorism further strengthen the nation’s resolve to protect Pakistan’s security and peace, the ISPR said.