The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported on Friday that Pakistan’s security forces have killed seven terrorists in separate operations carried out in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu district and various areas of Balochistan. These operations are part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the country, particularly in regions facing rising threats from militants.
Operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
According to the military’s media wing, four terrorists were killed during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Bannu on Friday morning. The operation, which targeted a group of terrorists or “khwarij” (extremists), also resulted in two others sustaining injuries. Weapons, ammunition, and explosives were recovered from the terrorists, who were reportedly involved in several attacks against security forces and the targeted killing of innocent civilians.
The ISPR stated that the sanitisation operation in the area is ongoing, aimed at eliminating any remaining militants. This operation follows a recent terrorist suicide attack in Bannu, which killed at least 12 security personnel. In retaliation, the security forces had killed six terrorists during the same period.
Operations in Balochistan
Meanwhile, in Balochistan, the security forces neutralized four terrorists in three separate engagements from November 20-24. An intelligence-based operation in District Awaran led to an intense gunfight in which two high-value targets, Niaz alias Ghuman and Zareef alias Shah Jahan, were killed.
In Dera Bugti district, security forces killed one terrorist, while in Kech district, another terrorist was eliminated in an IBO. The terrorists targeted in these operations were believed to be involved in several attacks on security forces and civilians and were highly sought by law enforcement agencies.
The ISPR reaffirmed the commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to maintaining peace and stability in Balochistan, emphasizing their determination to prevent any efforts aimed at disrupting the region’s progress.
Rising Terrorism and Counterterrorism Efforts
The country has been experiencing a surge in terrorist attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. A report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) revealed a 90% increase in fatalities linked to terrorism and counterterrorism operations in the third quarter of 2024. The report highlighted that KP and Balochistan accounted for 97% of all terrorism-related deaths in the country.
Political Leaders Pay Tribute to Security Forces
Following the success of the operations, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif both paid tribute to the security forces. In separate statements, they praised the bravery and effectiveness of the troops, particularly in Bannu, where three terrorists were killed and two others were arrested in injured condition.
Both leaders reiterated the resolve to continue fighting terrorism, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowing that the government would persist in its efforts to eliminate terrorism and safeguard the country’s security.
The ongoing operations reflect Pakistan’s determined stance against terrorism and its commitment to ensuring the safety and stability of the nation.
