Lakki Marwat: Security forces have killed five militants in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Lakki Marwat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to a statement from the military’s media wing on Wednesday.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the operation was launched based on intelligence about the presence of terrorists. During the engagement, two militants were also injured. The statement emphasized, “Our troops effectively targeted the terrorists’ location, resulting in the death of five militants, while two others sustained injuries.”
A sanitization operation followed to ensure the elimination of any remaining terrorists in the area. The military reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism from Pakistan.
President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for their successful operation in Lakki Marwat and expressed his resolve to continue counter-terrorism efforts until terrorism is completely eradicated from the country.
It is worth noting that the third quarter of 2024 saw a significant rise in terrorist violence and counter-terrorism operations, with fatalities increasing by 90%. According to a report from the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), 722 people were killed, including civilians, security personnel, and criminals, while 615 others were injured in 328 incidents.
The majority of fatalities occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, marking the highest percentage of deaths in a decade. With over 92% of terror incidents taking place in these provinces, the total fatalities for the first three quarters of 2024 have surpassed the entire death toll of 2023, reaching at least 1,534.
Despite the ongoing operations, terrorist groups are reportedly regrouping and strengthening their ranks, with many attacks remaining unclaimed for tactical reasons.