Security forces neutralise 22 militants, six soldiers martyred in K-P operations

Security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have successfully neutralised 22 militants in three separate operations, while four soldiers were martyred in the operations, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), reported.

According to the ISPR, the operations took place over December 6 and 7 across various districts in the province, during which six soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice.

The statement details that the first operation was conducted in the Gul Imam area of Tank District after intelligence reports indicated the presence of militants.

During the operation, security forces effectively targeted the enemy's stronghold, resulting in the deaths of nine militants and the injuries of six others, who were subsequently captured.

The second operation took place in North Waziristan, where 10 militants were killed. A third clash occurred in the Thall District when militants attempted to attack a security checkpoint. Three militants were killed in this engagement, while six soldiers were martyred in the exchange of fire.

ISPR’s statement confirmed that clearance operations are ongoing in the area to eliminate any remaining militants. "Pakistan's security forces remain committed to eradicating terrorism, and the sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve," the statement concluded.

The operations are part of continued efforts to maintain security and stability in the region, where military actions against insurgents have been ramped up in recent months.

Pakistan has recently witnessed a significant increase in attacks targeting security forces, law enforcement agencies, and security checkpoints, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). These attacks have escalated since the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) broke a fragile ceasefire with the government in 2022 and pledged to target security forces.

In response, the government officially designated the banned TTP as Fitna al Khawarij in July, mandating all institutions to refer to the perpetrators of terrorist attacks as khariji (outcasts).

On Thursday, eight militants, including a key leader, were killed in two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

However, the violence continues to escalate. In one of the deadliest recent attacks, at least twelve security personnel were martyred in a suicide bombing at a checkpoint in Bannu, KP, on November 20. Six terrorists were also neutralised during the operation.