Two TTP terrorists killed in Pakistan
PESHAWAR, April 20: Pakistani security forces killed two militants from the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan during an intelligence-based operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the military said. The operation took place in Bannu district and was part of ongoing efforts against militant groups, referred to by the state as “Fitna al-Khawarij.” According to the army’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations, one of the militants killed was a senior TTP commander listed among the most-wanted individuals. He was allegedly involved in several attacks targeting both security personnel and civilians. The second militant was identified as a suicide bomber. Weapons, ammunition, and a suicide vest were recovered from the site. Following the operation, security forces launched a search to locate any remaining militants in the area. Pakistan has recently seen a surge in terrorist attacks, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, after the TTP ended its ceasefire with the government in 2022. (PTI)
Pennsylvania house blast kills mother, 6 children
MILL HALL, April 20: A mother and six children were killed in an explosion and fire at a home in Lamar Township, Pennsylvania, authorities said. The victims included Sarah Stolzfus, 34, and her six children—four boys aged 11, 10, 5, and 3, and two girls aged 8 and 6. Firefighters responded on Sunday morning after reports of an explosion and fire. Although seven people were believed to be trapped inside, officials said the house was fully engulfed in flames, preventing rescue efforts. All seven were later confirmed dead by Pennsylvania State Police. Investigators are still determining the cause of the blast. Police said a propane leak inside the home may have triggered the explosion and fire, though external propane tanks were not involved. A neighbour reported hearing a loud boom before seeing flames rapidly spread through the house. The family had recently moved into the home and was often seen outside playing. (AP)
Radhakrishnan wraps up Sri Lanka visit
COLOMBO, April 20: C P Radhakrishnan concluded his two-day visit to Sri Lanka, where he held talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and other top leaders to strengthen bilateral ties. The visit focused on deepening cooperation under India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and reviewing ongoing development projects, including post-Cyclone Ditwah reconstruction efforts supported by India. Both sides signed six MoUs covering healthcare infrastructure, including medical and specialty units in several regions. India also extended OCI eligibility for the Indian diaspora up to six generations and simplified processes for Sri Lankan Tamils. Key announcements included resumed railway services, Bailey bridge installations, expanded education scholarships, and completion of Phase 3 of the Indian Housing Project. Radhakrishnan also met the Sri Lankan Prime Minister and visited Tamil community settlements and cultural sites before returning to New Delhi. (PTI)
