On Monday, security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) carried out a series of operations resulting in the death of five terrorists across different districts, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). These coordinated actions underline the ongoing efforts by Pakistan’s military and law enforcement agencies to combat terrorism and ensure regional stability.
In the first operation, conducted in Mohmand district, a joint intelligence-based operation successfully neutralized three terrorists, including a notable figure known as “Kharji alias Qari of Fitna Al Khawarij.” The operation also led to the discovery of a hideout, where a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives was recovered. Unfortunately, during this intense exchange of fire, police constable Abrar Hussain from Swabi district made the ultimate sacrifice, embracing shahadat (martyrdom).
The second operation took place in Dera Ismail Khan district, where security forces engaged a terrorist location effectively. The ISPR identified one of the terrorists as “Kharji Sifatullah Mullah Mansoor of Fitna Al Khawarij,” who was involved in multiple terrorist activities, including a suicide bombing attack in Daraban on December 12, 2023. Mansoor’s death, along with the injury of three other terrorists during the operation, is seen as a significant blow to the terrorist network.
In a third engagement in North Waziristan district, security forces again targeted and eliminated another terrorist affiliated with Fitna Al Khawarij. The ISPR’s statement emphasized that these operations reflect Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to combating terrorism and maintaining national security.
The recent operations come on the back of several successful counter-terrorism efforts. Last week, security forces killed a terrorist in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan’s Hoshab district, following a fierce gun battle. Additionally, three terrorists were killed in the Dir district of KP as they attempted to infiltrate Pakistan from Afghanistan, thwarting a significant security threat.
In response to the surge in terrorism and cross-border infiltration, especially in KP and Balochistan, the federal government last month approved the launch of a strategic campaign named “Azm-e-Istehkam.” This renewed national anti-terror drive is part of the National Action Plan aimed at addressing the growing security challenges.
The security situation in Pakistan has been concerning. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) Annual Security report, the second quarter of 2024 saw 380 fatalities and 220 injuries linked to violence. This period included 240 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations, with civilian and security personnel casualties totaling 236. The majority of these fatalities occurred in KP and Balochistan, which together experienced nearly 92% of all fatalities and 87% of attacks reported during this period. Specifically, KP suffered 67% of these fatalities, while Balochistan accounted for 25%.
KP and Balochistan’s proximity to Afghanistan has made them hotspots for terrorist activities and cross-border threats. The increased focus on these areas reflects the government’s commitment to countering terrorism and enhancing regional security.
Pakistan’s security forces, working in close coordination with other law enforcement agencies, continue to play a crucial role in safeguarding the country against terrorist threats. The recent operations and the strategic campaign “Azm-e-Istehkam” highlight the nation’s resolve to confront and overcome the challenges posed by terrorism.
