Security forces eliminate 22 India-backed terrorists in Khyber gunbattle

Security forces and law-enforcement agencies’ personnel have eliminated 22 terrorists in a joint intelligence-based operation in Khyber District, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

According to an ISPR press release issued on Friday, intense gunbattle broke out when security forces personnel raided the terrorists of Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khwarij.

A 10-year-old child was caught up in terrorists' indiscriminate firing and martyred.

According to the ISPR statement, on 21 April 2026, a joint intelligence-based operation was conducted by the security forces and the law-enforcement agencies in Khyber District on reported presence of khwarij.

During the conduct of the operation, after intense exchange of fire and skilful engagements by own forces, 22 khwarij, belonging to Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khwarij were sent to hell.

Due to cowardice and fear of getting apprehended alive, khwarij resorted to indiscriminate firing which resulted in martyrdom of a 10-year-old innocent child.

Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the slain Indian-sponsored khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area.

Sanitization operation was being conducted to eliminate any other Kharji found in the area as relentless counter-terrorism campaign under vision “Azm-e-Istehkam” (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by the security forces and the law-enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and -supported terrorism from the country and such sacrifice of our innocent civilians further strengthen our resolve.

President, PM commend troops

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have commended security forces for their successful operation against Fitna al-Khwarij in Khyber.

In their separate statements, they expressed grief and sorrow over the martyrdom of a ten-year old child who lost life due to unprovoked firing by terrorists. 

The President noted that at a time when Pakistan’s leadership is making strenuous efforts for peace in the region and the world, terrorists aim to undermine these efforts.

The President affirmed that Pakistan would defeat terrorism while continuing to play a leading role in promoting peace regionally and globally.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that the fight against terrorism would continue until it is completely eradicated from the country.

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the security forces in their unwavering resolve to combat terrorism.

Mohsin Naqvi lauds security forces

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi paid glowing tributes to security and law-enforcement agencies for their successful operation in Khyber, in which 22 Khwarij terrorists were sent to hell.

In his message, Mohsin Naqvi appreciated the professionalism of the security forces for foiling the nefarious designs of the Khwarij.

He emphasized that the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the security forces, acknowledging their sacrifices and bravery.

The entire nation is proud of the brave soldiers of the security forces, Mohsin Naqvi said that the entire nation stands by the security forces.”

Reporters Ahmad Mansoor and Awais Kiyani