Pakistan’s security forces eliminated nine terrorists and apprehended two others during two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in North Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Sunday, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). These successful operations demonstrate Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating terrorism from the region amid a rising wave of militant activities.
The first operation took place in the general area of Dosalli, where security forces acted on reports about the presence of “Khwarij” militants. During the operation, forces neutralized six terrorists and detained two others. The second operation, conducted in the Esham area, led to the elimination of three more terrorists after an intense exchange of fire. Two militants sustained injuries during the engagement.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who, according to the ISPR, were involved in several attacks targeting security forces and innocent civilians. The statement emphasized that the security forces remain resolute in their mission to wipe out terrorism, with sanitization operations underway to ensure no militant presence remains in the area.
The banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has escalated attacks in recent months, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, following the collapse of a fragile ceasefire with the government. The surge in militant violence made 2024 the deadliest year for Pakistan’s security forces in over a decade. Security forces lost 685 personnel to terrorist attacks last year, contributing to a total of 1,612 fatalities, which included civilian casualties.
The government has labeled the TTP as “Fitna al Khawarij” and instructed institutions to use the term “Khwarij” (outcast) to describe the perpetrators of terrorist acts. These operations signal Pakistan’s firm stance against terrorism and its commitment to restoring peace and security in affected areas.
