ISLAMABAD: Pakistani security forces killed 19 militants in three separate operations in the country’s northwest this week, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said on Thursday.
Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Islamabad calls “khwarij,” an early-Islamic term for rebels who declared other Muslims apostates, has intensified attacks in the region in recent years. Pakistani officials often accuse the TTP and separatist groups such as the Baloch Liberation Army of being backed by India, a charge New Delhi denies.
“On 9-10 September, nineteen Khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy, Fitna al Khwarij were sent to hell in three separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province,” the ISPR said.
“Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from Indian sponsored killed Khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in these areas,” it added.
According to the statement, security forces first launched an intelligence-based operation in the Guluno area of Mohmand district, where 14 militants were killed after an intense exchange of fire.
