Pakistani security forces conducted two successful intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on December 5, resulting in the elimination of nine alleged terrorists described as "Indian-sponsored khwarij." The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed the details of the raids, which are part of the broader national counter-terrorism campaign.
First Operation in Tank District
According to the military's media wing, the first action took place in Tank district. Forces acted on specific intelligence reports indicating the presence of individuals linked to what was termed the "Indian Proxy Fitna Al Khwarij." Upon reaching the suspected location, troops effectively engaged the terrorists, leading to a fierce firefight.
After what the ISPR statement called an "intense exchange of fire," seven militants were killed. The operation concluded with the recovery of weapons and ammunition from the scene.
Second Raid in Lakki Marwat
On the same day, a second intelligence-based operation was launched in Lakki Marwat district. Security personnel, acting on further intelligence, came under fire from suspected militants in the area. The forces promptly returned fire, neutralizing two more terrorists in the ensuing engagement.
Similar to the first raid, arms and ammunition were seized from the eliminated individuals. The ISPR stated that these militants had been involved in numerous terrorist activities, including attacks on security forces, law-enforcement agencies, and the target killing of innocent civilians.
Ongoing Sanitisation and National Campaign
Following the operations, sanitisation activities were initiated in the surrounding areas to ensure no other threats remained. The ISPR emphasized that these actions are a continuation of the state's determined counter-terrorism efforts under the "Azm-e-Istehkam" framework.
This framework was approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan. The military reiterated its commitment to continue the campaign at full pace with the clear objective of eliminating the menace of foreign-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan.
The statement did not report any casualties among security personnel and did not mention any arrests being made. Further operational details or the identities of those killed were not released. Independent confirmation of the events was not immediately available.
