A Pakistan Army officer was martyred and five “Indian-sponsored” terrorists were killed during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber-Paktunkhwa’s Razmak area on Saturday, the military’s media wing said.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces carried out the operation in North Waziristan district after receiving intelligence reports about the presence of terrorists, whom the military described as belonging to the banned Fitna Al Khawarij, referring to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.

“During the conduct of operation, due to effective engagement by own troops, five Indian-sponsored khwarij were sent to hell.

“However, during the intense fire exchange, Major Hafiz Ihsan Elahi (age: 34 years, resident of District Mianwali), a brave officer who was leading his troops from the front, having fought gallantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom,” the ISPR said.

Read: 32 terrorists eliminated in latest purge as violence surges

The military said weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who it said were involved in multiple attacks against security forces, law enforcement agencies and civilians.

The ISPR said a “sanitisation operation” was underway in the area to clear any remaining terrorists.

The armed forces vowed to eliminate all terrorists as part of the “relentless counter terrorism campaign under vision Azm-e-Istehkam”.

The Azm-e-Istehkam counter terrorism campaign, approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan, is being conducted by the security forces and law enforcement agencies to “wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism” from the country, according to the ISPR.

“Our brave soldiers further reinforce our unwavering commitment of safeguarding our nation at all costs.”

President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for successfully carrying out the IBO and said it reflected the security forces’ courage, professionalism and unwavering resolve to eliminate terrorism.

He praised the forces for their continued efforts to safeguard the country and combat militant threats.

President Zardari also paid tribute to Major Elahi, saying the nation would always remember the sacrifices of its brave sons.

He said the fallen officer had set a remarkable example of duty, courage and leadership.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the fallen officer.

The prime minister said Pakistan’s security forces were achieving significant successes in the fight against terrorism under the Azm-e-Istehkam vision, reaffirming the government’s resolve to continue operations until the menace of terrorism was eradicated.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said Major Elahi sacrificed his life for the homeland and foiled the nefarious designs of Indian-sponsored terrorists.

“Shaheed Major Hafiz Ihsan Elahi, by demonstrating unparalleled courage and bravery, sent five terrorists to hell.”

Pakistan has witnessed a surge in militant attacks, particularly in K-P and Balochistan, with North Waziristan remaining one of the key districts affected by insurgent violence.

In May, security forces killed 11 militants in an IBO in North Waziristan after troops engaged them on intelligence regarding their presence in the area. The military said the slain militants were linked to attacks on security forces and civilians.