RAWALPINDI, 20 September, 2026 (Kamran Raja): An exchange of fire took place between a Security Forces convoy and Khwarij in Hangu District on September 20, during which eight Khwarij belonging to the Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij were killed due to effective engagement by the Security Forces, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). During the intense exchange of fire, two officers, Captain Abuzar Farooq, 23, a resident of Gujranwala District, and Lieutenant Sheraz Babar, 22, a resident of Chakwal District, who were leading their troops from the front, fought gallantly and embraced martyrdom along with four other soldiers. A sanitization operation is underway to eliminate any other Khwarij present in the area, while the counter-terrorism campaign under the vision of “Azm-e-Istehkam,” approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, will continue at full pace. The ISPR said the Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies remain committed to eliminating foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country, adding that the sacrifices of the brave soldiers further reinforce their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation at all costs.