In a major intelligence-based operation in Dera Ismail Khan, security forces eliminated nine terrorists associated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) - Fitna-ul-Khawarij - including a leading commander named Shireen.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the security forces successfully neutralized the terrorist hideout, where they found and seized significant amounts of arms and ammunition.
Among those killed was a leading figure, identified as Shireen, who was reportedly a key member of the Khawarij leadership.
The operation is part of the ongoing efforts by Pakistani forces to dismantle the growing threat of terrorism in the region.
Authorities have indicated that the Khawarij, a faction linked to extremist ideologies, have been active in conducting violent activities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other parts of the country.
This operation comes on the heels of a successful counter-infiltration mission carried out by the security forces in North Waziristan.
On the evening prior, Pakistan’s forces foiled an infiltration attempt by foreign militants along the Pak-Afghan border. During an exchange of fire, eight foreign terrorists were killed, and four others sustained injuries.
The ISPR emphasized Pakistan's ongoing efforts to enhance border security, urging the Afghan interim government to take responsibility for effective border management. The Pakistani military remains committed to safeguarding the country’s frontiers and tackling the ongoing threat of terrorism, a commitment underscored by the ongoing sanitization operations in the area.
The political leadership has expressed full support for the security forces’ efforts. President Asif Ali Zardari, in a statement issued by the Presidency, commended the forces for their bravery in stopping the infiltration attempt and acknowledged the importance of their actions in protecting Pakistan’s borders. He particularly praised the forces' efforts in eliminating the eight foreign terrorists.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, in his statement, also lauded the forces for thwarting the terrorists' plans. He reiterated the government's unwavering support for the military in its fight against terrorism and its commitment to securing the nation's borders.
