The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government has expressed regret over civilian casualties during a counterterrorism operation against outlaws in Mardan, extending its "deepest condolences to the affected families" with whom, it said, it stands in the moment of grief.
Recounting details of the operation in a statement on Saturday, the government said security forces conducted an operation in the early hours of March 29 in the remote hilltop area of Katlang in Mardan.
It stated that the operation was based on credible intelligence regarding the presence of armed militants who were using the location as a hideout and transit point.
"The operation successfully neutralised several high-value targets linked to ongoing militant activities in the region. Unfortunately, subsequent reports confirmed the presence of non-combatants, including women and children, at the periphery of the target zone, resulting in tragic civilian casualties," it said
This, it said, was an immensely painful and regrettable development.
"Every effort is made during such operations to avoid collateral damage. However, the complex terrain, the deliberate tactics of militants to embed within civilian populations, and the fog of war can sometimes lead to unintended consequences," it added.
The K-P government extended its deepest condolences to the affected families, stating that immediate measures are being taken to investigate the circumstances surrounding civilian presence in the area.
"[Efforts are also underway to] extend medical assistance to the injured and to facilitate relief and compensation for the victims' families.
"Security forces are committed to upholding the highest standards of operational conduct and remain focused on eliminating threats while preserving civilian safety.
"The sacrifices of our people are not forgotten, and we remain united in our resolve for peace and security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," the statement added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday appreciated officers and jawans of security forces for carrying out an operation against "Khawarij" in Katlang, and "foiling their nefarious designs" to spread extremism besides a successful operation against terrorists in Kalat.
The premier lauded professional skills of the officers and jawans of security forces for "successful operation against Fitna-al-Khawarij" and their facilitators and killing six terrorists in Kalat. He said that security forces, by destroying the dens of Khawarij, had protected the country from big harm.
He said no terrorism organization including 'Fitna-al-Khawarij' would be allowed to ruin the country's peace. "The war against terrorism will continue till complete eradication of terrorism from the country."
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