Eight militants killed in separate operations in K-P: ISPR

Security forces killed eight terrorists in two separate operations conducted in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's (K-P) South Waziristan and Lakki Marwat districts on Thursday, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), reported.

According to the ISPR, an intelligence-based operation was launched in the Sararogha area of South Waziristan District on December 5 following reports of terrorist activity in the region.

During the operation, security forces engaged the militants, resulting in the deaths of two terrorists, including the notorious militant leader Khan Muhammad.

“Khan Muhammad was involved in numerous terrorist activities, including target killings and extortion,” the ISPR statement detailed. He had been a highly wanted figure, with the government placing a reward of Rs1 million for his capture. Additionally, two other terrorists were arrested during the operation.

A second intelligence-based operation was carried out in the Lakki Marwat District. After an intense exchange of fire, six more terrorists were successfully neutralised by the security forces.

"Sanitisation operations are ongoing in the area to eliminate any remaining militants, reaffirming the determination of Pakistan’s security forces to eradicate terrorism from the country", the ISPR confirmed.

Following the successful operations, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Pakistan's security forces on Thursday. In separate statements, both leaders commended the security forces for their effective operations in South Waziristan and Lakki Marwat districts.

President Zardari expressed national pride, stating that the entire nation stood firmly behind the brave security forces. He reiterated the country's collective resolve to eradicate the threat of terrorism.

PM Shehbaz also praised the forces for their unwavering commitment, saying, “Security forces have always stood like a solid wall in front of the enemy to protect our beloved country.” He also affirmed his determination to eliminate all forms of terrorism from Pakistan.