Six soldiers martyred, 22 terrorists killed in KP operations
In a series of counter-terrorism operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) on December 6 and 7, six soldiers embraced martyrdom while 22 terrorists were killed, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported on Saturday. The operations highlight the ongoing efforts of Pakistan’s security forces to combat the growing menace of terrorism in the region.
Three Separate Operations
- Tank District: An intelligence-based operation (IBO) was launched in the Gul Imam area of Tank on reports of terrorist presence. Security forces engaged the terrorists effectively, killing nine and injuring six others.
- North Waziristan: Another operation in North Waziristan neutralized 10 terrorists, further dismantling insurgent activities in the area.
- Thall District: In the third encounter, security forces thwarted an attempted attack on a security post in Thall, killing three terrorists. However, six soldiers sacrificed their lives in the intense exchange of fire.
Following these operations, sanitization efforts are underway to ensure no remaining terrorists are present in the areas.
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Earlier in the week, security forces conducted additional operations in South Waziristan and Lakki Marwat. Two terrorists, including ringleader Khan Muhammad, were killed in South Waziristan, while two others were apprehended. Khan Muhammad was wanted for numerous crimes, including targeted killings and extortion, with a bounty of Rs1 million on his head.
In Lakki Marwat, six terrorists were killed after an intense fire exchange during another IBO.
The operations come amid an alarming increase in violence. A report by the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) revealed a 90% surge in violence in the third quarter of 2024 (July-September), with 722 fatalities recorded in 328 incidents. KP and Balochistan accounted for 97% of these fatalities, marking the highest percentage in a decade.
The total fatalities for the first three quarters of 2024 have already surpassed those of the entire year 2023, with 1,534 deaths reported compared to 1,523 in 2023.
The ISPR reiterated the resolve of Pakistan’s security forces to eliminate terrorism, emphasizing that the sacrifices of brave soldiers further strengthen their determination. “Security forces are committed to wiping out the menace of terrorism,” the statement read.
President, PM Commend Security Forces for Successful Anti-Terror Operations
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday praised the security forces for their successful operations against terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), which resulted in the elimination of 22 militants.
In separate statements, the president and the prime minister commended the professionalism and dedication of the security forces for neutralizing nine terrorists in Tank’s Gul Imam area, ten in North Waziristan, and three in Thall District. Additionally, six injured militants were captured during the operations.
The leaders expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of six security personnel during these operations. They prayed for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks in Jannah and extended condolences to their grieving families.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated, “The entire nation, including myself, pays tribute to the security personnel who sacrificed their lives for the motherland.”
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating terrorism from the country, emphasizing that the fight against the menace would continue until it is completely eliminated.
“The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the security forces in this war against terrorism,” they stated, underscoring the unity and resolve of the country in the face of this ongoing challenge.
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