ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s security forces have killed 21 more terrorists during a series of intelligence-based operations (IBOs) conducted in North Waziristan, delivering a major blow to militant networks operating in the region, the military’s media wing said on Saturday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operations were carried out over the past 72 hours in the general area of Miran Shah and surrounding localities of North Waziristan district in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
The military said the terrorists belonged to the Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khawarij and included four key ring leaders who were highly wanted by security agencies.
Four Key Militant Leaders Eliminated
The ISPR identified the slain militant commanders as:
- Kharji Khalid Raza alias Salar
- Kharji Muftoon
- Kharji Musa
- Kharji Imran alias Ayan
According to the military, these individuals were involved in numerous terrorist activities, including attacks on security forces and the killing of innocent civilians.
The elimination of these senior figures is being viewed as a significant setback for terrorist networks operating in the tribal districts.
Total Terrorist Death Toll Reaches 48
The latest operation follows earlier counterterrorism actions in the same region.
ISPR stated that with the killing of 21 additional terrorists, the total number of militants neutralised during the ongoing operations has reached 48.
Security forces reportedly engaged multiple terrorist hideouts and locations during the intelligence-driven operations, resulting in fierce exchanges of fire.
Officials described the missions as highly skilled and precise operations conducted on verified intelligence regarding terrorist movements and activities.
Weapons and Ammunition Recovered
The military said a large cache of weapons and ammunition was recovered from the killed terrorists.
According to the statement, the militants had been actively involved in planning and executing attacks against both civilians and security personnel.
The recovered material is expected to assist investigators in identifying additional networks and facilitators linked to terrorist organisations operating in the region.
Sanitisation Operations Continue
ISPR said follow-up sanitisation operations are ongoing to clear the area of any remaining militants.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating terrorist threats under the national counterterrorism framework known as Azm-e-Istehkam, approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.
“Sanitisation operations will continue to eliminate remaining holed-up khawarij from these areas,” the statement said.
The military added that security forces and law enforcement agencies would continue their campaign at full pace to eradicate foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.
President Zardari Praises Security Forces
President Asif Ali Zardari commended the armed forces for the successful operations and praised their professionalism and courage.
According to a statement issued by the President’s Office, he described the elimination of key terrorist leaders as a major success against extremist networks.
“The nation stands shoulder to shoulder with its brave security forces,” the president said.
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to defeating terrorism and restoring lasting peace in affected regions.
Prime Minister Hails Counterterrorism Success
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the security forces for the operation.
In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, he said the successful action against the Indian-backed Fitna al-Khawarij demonstrated the effectiveness of Pakistan’s counterterrorism strategy.
The prime minister said the armed forces were achieving significant successes under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam and reaffirmed that the fight against terrorism would continue until the menace is completely eradicated.
“Our war against terrorists will continue until terrorism is completely eliminated from the country,” he stated.
Interior Minister Commends Operation
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also praised the security forces for their performance during the operation.
He lauded the bravery and professionalism displayed by the troops and said the nation stands firmly behind its security institutions.
“Salute to the brave personnel of the security forces who thwarted the nefarious designs of the Khawarij,” Naqvi said.
He added that with public support, terrorists and their facilitators would continue to be identified and eliminated.
Security Challenges Persist
The successful operation comes amid continued security challenges in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Just a day earlier, separate explosions in Lakki Marwat and Bajaur districts claimed the lives of at least three people, including an eight-year-old girl.
In Lakki Marwat, a suicide blast near a mosque killed two people and injured several others during Friday prayers.
Meanwhile, in Bajaur district, a 60-year-old man lost his life in an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion.
These incidents underscore the ongoing threat posed by militant groups despite intensified counterterrorism operations across the province.
Pakistan Continues Anti-Terror Campaign
Security experts believe the latest operations in North Waziristan demonstrate Pakistan’s determination to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent future attacks.
The elimination of senior militant commanders is expected to disrupt operational planning and weaken extremist groups operating along the country’s western border.
As operations continue, authorities remain focused on restoring security, protecting civilians, and ensuring long-term stability in the region.
