Security Forces Eliminate Six Terrorists in North Waziristan Operation

Peshawar, February 28 – Security forces in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province successfully neutralized six terrorists in an intelligence-based operation, according to a statement from the military’s media wing on Friday.

The operation, conducted in the Ghulam Khan Kalay area of North Waziristan, targeted a terrorist hideout based on confirmed intelligence reports, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated.

Decisive Action Against Terrorists​

During the engagement, security personnel effectively struck the designated location, eliminating six militants. ISPR referred to the terrorists as "Khwarij," a term used for extremists, emphasizing their involvement in violent activities.

The military also reported the recovery of weapons and ammunition from the neutralized terrorists, highlighting their previous involvement in attacks against security forces and civilians.

"A sanitization operation is underway to ensure the complete elimination of any remaining threats in the region," ISPR added, reiterating Pakistan's commitment to eradicating terrorism.

Leaders Commend Security Forces​

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the security personnel for their success, reaffirming the government’s determination to continue the fight against terrorism.

"We will persist in our efforts until terrorism is completely eradicated from Pakistan," he stated, extending his gratitude to the armed forces for their unwavering dedication to national security.

President Asif Ali Zardari echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing national unity against terrorism. In his statement, he vowed that the fight against extremist elements would persist to ensure peace and stability in the country.

The Interior Ministry also acknowledged the efforts of security forces, stating on social media platform X that "the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces in eliminating terrorist threats."

Rising Terror Threat in Pakistan​

The security situation in Pakistan remains precarious, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, as militant activities have surged since the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in 2022.

Just days prior, security forces killed 10 terrorists in a similar intelligence-based operation in Khyber district. That operation, conducted in the Bagh area, targeted militants based on confirmed reports of their presence.

According to a recent report by the Islamabad-based Pak Institute for Peace Studies, the number of terror attacks in 2024 has risen to levels reminiscent of the security crisis in 2014. While terrorist groups no longer hold physical control over territories, the deteriorating security situation in the affected regions remains a significant concern.

Pakistan’s security forces continue their counter-terrorism efforts, maintaining a firm stance against extremist elements to restore stability in the region.