Pakistan security forces killed five suspected militants in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Razmak area of North Waziristan, while a Pakistan Army officer was martyred during an exchange of fire, the military’s media wing said on Saturday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was launched after intelligence reports about the presence of militants in the area.

During the operation, security forces engaged the militants in an intense exchange of fire, killing five India-sponsored Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists.

The military said Major Hafiz Ehsan, a resident of Mianwali, embraced martyrdom while leading the operation from the front.

Security forces also recovered weapons, ammunition and explosive material from the slain militants, the ISPR added.

The military said sanitisation operations were continuing in the area to eliminate any remaining militant presence and ensure the security of the region.

The ISPR reiterated that Pakistan’s security forces remain committed to eradicating terrorism and that the sacrifices of soldiers further strengthen the country’s resolve to restore lasting peace.