ISLAMABAD: Security forces killed five terrorists and captured two others in a series of intelligence-based operations (IBOs) across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday.
The operations took place amid a surge in terrorist activity in Pakistan, particularly in KP and Balochistan, following the collapse of a ceasefire between the government and the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in November 2022.
“Five Khwarij were sent to hell and two others were apprehended during three separate IBOs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” the military’s media wing stated, using the term “Khwarij” to refer to militants.
Details of the Operations
- Bajaur District:
Acting on intelligence reports about terrorist presence, security forces launched an operation in Bajaur. During a fierce exchange of fire, three militants — including a high-value target identified as Fareed Ullah — were killed. - North Waziristan (Dossali area):
In a separate operation, two more militants were gunned down by security forces following an intense shootout. - Mohmand District:
Security personnel raided a suspected hideout, leading to the arrest of two terrorists, including high-value target Lal Ameer Ibrahim. Weapons, ammunition, and explosives were recovered from the site.
All apprehended individuals were reportedly involved in multiple terrorist activities. Sanitisation operations are ongoing in these regions to eliminate any remaining threats.
“The Pakistan Armed Forces remain resolute in their mission to eradicate terrorism and ensure peace and stability across the country,” the ISPR added.
Background and Rising Threat
Late last month, Pakistani forces killed 54 militants attempting to cross the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in North Waziristan, in one of the largest reported infiltration attempts in recent times.
The frequency of militant attacks has sharply increased in 2024. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, March alone saw over 100 attacks — the highest monthly count since November 2014.
Pakistan currently ranks second on the Global Terrorism Index 2025, with terrorist-related deaths surging by 45% in the past year, reaching 1,081 fatalities.
