RAWALPINDI (National Times)- Security forces have killed 16 militants during intelligence-based operations in different areas of North Waziristan, while two soldiers embraced martyrdom in an exchange of fire.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), 12 militants, including two Afghan nationals, were killed during an intelligence-based operation in Ali Khel.

Meanwhile, two militants each were killed in separate operations in Mir Ali and Datta Khel.

Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the militants killed during the operations, the military’s media wing said.

The ISPR said that Havaldar Ismat Ali and Naik Aftab Ali embraced martyrdom during an exchange of fire with the militants.

Havaldar Ismat Ali belonged to Swabi, while Naik Aftab Ali was a resident of Mardan.

Sanitisation operations will continue in the area to eliminate any remaining militants, the ISPR said, adding that counterterrorism operations under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam would continue at full pace.

Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to security forces for killing 16 militants during the successful operation in North Waziristan.

The president said the nation saluted its brave sons, adding that the sacrifices of Havaldar Ismat Ali and Naik Aftab Ali, who embraced martyrdom in North Waziristan, would always be remembered.

He said operations under Azm-e-Istehkam against foreign-sponsored terrorism would continue with full force until the elimination of the last terrorist.