ISLAMABAD: Pakistani security forces killed five “Indian sponsored” terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) conducted on Sunday in the Lakki Marwat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The operation was launched following reports of the presence of terrorists linked to “Fitna al Khawarij,” a term officially used to describe the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist group, according to a statement from the military’s media affairs wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The ISPR added that after an intense exchange of fire, troops successfully engaged the terrorist hideout, resulting in the deaths of five terrorists.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the site. The killed terrorists were reportedly involved in numerous terrorist activities in the region.
Following the operation, a sanitisation drive has been launched to clear the area and ensure no other terrorist remain hidden.
Security forces and law enforcement agencies are continuing search operations to neutralise any remaining threats.
The ISPR reiterated the nation’s commitment to eradicating terrorism, stating that counterterrorism efforts will persist under the “Azm-i-Istehkam” strategy, as approved by the federal apex committee under the National Action Plan.
Authorities have affirmed that the campaign against foreign-sponsored terrorism will continue with full force to maintain peace and stability in the country.
Six terrorists killed in CTD operation in Kohat
Meanwhile, the Counter Terrorism Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa killed six terrorists belonging to Fitna-al-Khwarij during an intelligence-based operation in the Lachi area of Kohat, Radio Pakistan reported on Sunday.
The operation was carried out jointly by CTD personnel and local police following intelligence reports about the presence of terrorists in the area.
Security forces surrounded the hideout and engaged the suspects during the operation.
A large cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered from the terrorists after the operation. Authorities said the weapons were likely intended for use in terrorist activities in the region.
Condemnation
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have both commended the security forces for the successful operation.
In his statement, President Zardari praised the personnel of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and the CTD, highlighting that the elimination of terrorists is a crucial step toward ensuring lasting peace and stability.
He lauded the bravery and dedication of the forces in the fight against terrorism.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the security forces’ efforts, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating all forms of terrorism.
He stated that such operations demonstrate Pakistan’s firm resolve to protect its citizens and uphold law and order across the country.
Terrorist sanctuaries in Afghanistan
Pakistan has witnessed a rise in cross-border terror attacks since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021.
Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Afghan Taliban regime to take action against terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory.
However, the Taliban regime failed to take any action against terror groups and prevent Afghan soil from being used against Pakistan.
Pakistan is currently carrying out an Operation Ghazab Lil Haq to respond to cross-border attacks and dismantle terrorists infrastructure threatening national security.
