ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s security forces eliminated 13 ‘Indian-backed’ terrorists during a series of intelligence-based operations carried out across multiple districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on March 6 and 7, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement on Sunday.
According to the military’s media wing, the operations were part of an ongoing, high-intensity counter-terrorism campaign targeting terrorists associated with what officials described as “Indian-backed Fitna Al Khwarij.” The engagements took place in Bajaur, Bannu, Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber, and South Waziristan districts.
In Bajaur District, security forces conducted a precise intelligence-driven raid on a suspected terrorist hideout. During an intense exchange of fire, troops successfully neutralized five terrorists operating in the area.
Separate encounters in Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan districts resulted in the killing of three more terrorists after security personnel engaged them in combat operations.
Meanwhile, in two additional engagements in Khyber and South Waziristan districts, security forces eliminated five terrorists during coordinated actions aimed at dismantling militant networks in the region.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the killed terrorists, who, according to ISPR, had been actively involved in multiple terrorist activities targeting security forces and civilians.
The military noted that these operations are being conducted at a time when Pakistan is addressing evolving security challenges along its border with Afghanistan. Authorities emphasized that counter-terror operations will continue to ensure stability and prevent terrorist groups from regrouping.
“Security forces remain fully committed to safeguarding Pakistan’s borders and eliminating all threats to national security,” the statement said. Sanitization operations are currently underway in the affected areas to locate and eliminate any remaining militants.
Officials said the campaign forms part of the broader national counter-terrorism strategy under the Azm-e-Istehkam initiative, approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.
The armed forces, in coordination with law enforcement agencies, reaffirmed their resolve to continue operations until all foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism is eradicated from the country.
