Nine terrorists, including a high-value ringleader, were killed in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Dera Ismail Khan’s Takwara area, the military said on Monday; DAWN reported this citing Pakistan’s ISPR.
According to the report, the operation took place on the night of April 6-7 based on intelligence about the presence of khwarij, a term the state uses for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also referred to as Fitna Al Khawarij.
The ISPR stated that security forces engaged the militants in a fierce exchange of fire, resulting in the death of nine, including notorious ringleader Shireen. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the hideout.
Shireen was a wanted terrorist, allegedly involved in multiple attacks, including targeted killings and the martyrdom of Captain Hasnain Akhtar on March 20.
“Today’s operation has avenged that heinous act and brought the main perpetrator to justice,” the ISPR said, adding that a follow-up sanitisation operation was underway to ensure no other militants remain in the area.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism from the country, stating that Pakistan’s security forces remain resolute in their mission.
The operation comes amid a notable spike in terror attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, following the TTP’s withdrawal from a ceasefire agreement in late 2022.
March saw more than 100 militant attacks nationwide — the highest monthly figure since 2014 — according to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.
In KP alone, 206 people were killed last month, including 49 security personnel, 34 civilians, and 123 militants. Another 115 were injured.
A day prior to the Dera Ismail Khan operation, eight terrorists were killed during an infiltration attempt along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in North Waziristan.
Despite the rising violence, the federal government has ruled out launching a fresh large-scale military operation.
President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for their success, pledging continued support for anti-terror operations until full peace is restored.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed the sentiment, stating that the nation stands united with its armed forces in the fight against terrorism and remains committed to defeating it completely.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
