Hangu Operation: Captain Hamza Akram Martyred, 7 Terrorists Killed, Says ISPR

HANGU: A Pakistan Army captain was martyred while seven terrorists were killed during an intelligence-based operation in Hangu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The operation was carried out on Friday after security agencies received intelligence regarding the presence of militants affiliated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), referred to by the state as Fitna al Khawarij.

Security forces launched the operation after confirming the presence of the militants in the area. According to ISPR, troops engaged the terrorists and successfully eliminated seven of them during the exchange of fire.

Captain Hamza Akram Martyred During Operation

During the operation, 27-year-old Captain Hamza Akram embraced martyrdom while leading his troops on the frontline.

Captain Akram belonged to Narowal district in Punjab and was reportedly pursuing the militants when he was critically engaged in the firefight.

ISPR said weapons and ammunition were recovered from the terrorists killed during the operation. The military's media wing also stated that the militants had been involved in attacks against security personnel, law enforcement agencies and civilians.

Security forces have launched a follow-up sanitisation operation in the area to search for any remaining militants and ensure that the region is cleared of terrorist elements.

Security Forces Continue Counter-Terrorism Operations

The latest operation comes amid continued counter-terrorism efforts across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

A day earlier, ISPR reported that 10 terrorists had been killed in two separate security operations in the province. Eight militants were killed after attempting to attack security forces' checkposts in the Azam Warsak area of South Waziristan, while another two were eliminated during an engagement in Dir district.

These operations are part of ongoing efforts by Pakistan's security forces to prevent militant attacks and disrupt terrorist networks operating in the region.

President Zardari Pays Tribute to Martyred Captain

President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Captain Hamza Akram and expressed condolences to his family.

The president praised the sacrifice made by the young officer and said the nation remains indebted to the personnel who give their lives for the country's security and sovereignty.

He also prayed for the departed soul and offered strength to the bereaved family.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Condemns Terrorism

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of Captain Akram and praised his courage and commitment during the operation.

The prime minister commended the security forces for eliminating seven terrorists and reiterated the government's determination to continue operations against militant groups.

He said the sacrifices of Pakistan's armed forces and law enforcement personnel in the fight against terrorism would not be forgotten.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also expressed condolences to the family of Captain Hamza Akram and paid tribute to his sacrifice for the country.

Key Terrorist Commander Killed in Bannu

In a separate development, security forces killed a suspected key terrorist commander during an intelligence-based operation in Jani Khel, Bannu district.

The militant was identified as Jamidullah and was reportedly involved in terrorist activities. A security official said he was also considered an expert in operating quadcopters.

The operation was conducted after intelligence agencies received information about his presence in the area.

Rising Violence in Pakistan

The latest incidents come as Pakistan continues to face security challenges, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other areas affected by militant activity.

According to data cited by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, violence linked to terrorism and counter-terrorism operations increased significantly in July 2026. The month was described as the deadliest of the year so far, with 205 people killed, including 112 security personnel.

Security forces continue to conduct intelligence-led operations across affected areas as authorities seek to prevent further terrorist attacks and dismantle militant networks.