Security Forces
Security forces successfully eliminated nine terrorists and arrested two others during two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in the Dosalli and Esham areas of North Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on January 11. The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), shared the details on Sunday.
The operations were conducted following reports of terrorist activity in the region. In the first operation in the Dosalli area, security forces engaged the terrorists at their hideout, killing six and capturing two.
Subsequently, in a separate engagement in the Esham area, three terrorists were neutralized after an intense exchange of fire. Two additional terrorists were wounded during the operation.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the neutralized terrorists, who were reportedly involved in numerous attacks against security forces and targeted killings of civilians.
ISPR emphasized that sanitization operations are underway to ensure no remaining terrorists remain in the area. It reiterated the commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to eradicate terrorism and restore peace in the region.
These operations come against the backdrop of a troubling rise in violence since the Taliban regained control in Afghanistan in 2021. The bordering provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have been particularly affected.
According to the “CRSS Annual Security Report 2024” by the Centre for Security and Strategic Studies, the year 2024 witnessed the deadliest toll in a decade for Pakistan’s civil and military forces, with at least 685 fatalities and 444 terror attacks.
Overall, the country recorded 2,546 fatalities linked to violence and terrorism, marking a 66% increase from 2023. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan bore the brunt of the violence, recording 1,616 and 782 fatalities, respectively. The year saw 1,166 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations, highlighting the ongoing security challenges.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari lauded the security forces for their successful operation. The Prime Minister commended the armed forces for their dedication and resilience, vowing to continue the fight against terrorism until it is completely eradicated.
President Zardari echoed this sentiment, emphasizing national unity against the menace and reaffirming the commitment to uproot terrorism. Both leaders praised the valor and sacrifices of the security forces and reiterated the nation’s unwavering support for their efforts.
