North Waziristan: Soldier martyred during exchange of fire with terrorists, ISPR

A Pakistan Army soldier was martyred during an "intense exchange of fire" with terrorists in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan tribal district, the military's media affairs wing said on Sunday.

In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the exchange of fire took place between terrorists and Pakistan Army troops during which the latter "fought bravely and effectively engaged the terrorists' location".

However, Sepoy Shahzaib Imtiaz embraced martyrdom after "having fought gallantly", the ISPR said, adding that he was 25-years-old and a resident of Kotli Sattian.

"Area clearance is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area," the statement concluded.

President Dr Arif Alvi expressed grief and sorrow over the soldier's martyrdom, paying tribute to his "great sacrifice".

Taking to Twitter, the president said the entire nation was united in the fight against terrorism. He added that the war against terrorism would continue until this scourge was completely eliminated.

Earlier this month, security forces killed four terrorists during operations in North Waziristan tribal district and Balochistan’s Noshki district.