Pakistani security forces have eliminated 37 terrorists during a series of intelligence-based operations carried out in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, officials confirmed. The raids targeted militant hideouts and training camps in Kohat, Hangu and Thal following a recent wave of terrorist attacks in the province.
The operations were launched after credible intelligence pointed to active terrorist networks operating in these districts and along the Afghan border. Security personnel moved swiftly to disrupt these hideouts before further attacks could be planned.
Ground Operation in Kohat and Hangu
On September 20, troops conducted a precision ground operation against a terrorist cell active in the Kohat and Hangu districts. Through accurate and effective engagement, security forces killed nine militants linked to the Indian-backed proxy group Fitna al-Khawarij.
Officials say the operation was carried out based on verified intelligence, allowing forces to strike with minimal risk of collateral damage.
Cross-Border Camps Destroyed
Acting on further intelligence, security forces also targeted camps and hideouts belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij and affiliated militant groups near the Afghan border. Three key targets were destroyed in this phase of the campaign, including a facility reportedly used to train suicide bombers.
This part of the operation resulted in the deaths of 28 terrorists, among them several suicide bombers. Large quantities of weapons and ammunition stored at these sites were also seized or destroyed, dealing a significant blow to the group’s operational capacity.
Pakistan’s Stance on Cross-Border Terrorism
Security officials reiterated that Pakistan has consistently pursued peace and stability in the region, but protecting civilian lives remains the top priority. They expressed concern over the continued presence of terrorist sanctuaries inside Afghanistan, noting that much of the threat facing Pakistan originates from across the border.
Officials emphasized that the recent Khyber Pakhtunkhwa terrorists killed in these operations were carefully identified through intelligence to avoid harming civilians or uninvolved parties, with extensive precautionary measures taken throughout the raids.
Ongoing Counterterrorism Campaign
Security forces and law enforcement agencies stated that the anti-terrorism campaign “Azm-e-Istehkam,” operating under the broader vision of Azm-e-Istehkam, will continue in full force through the ongoing “Ghazab-ul-Haq” operation. The goal, officials said, is to root out foreign-sponsored and foreign-backed terrorism from the country entirely.
Authorities indicated that similar intelligence-based operations will continue across the region as long as cross-border terrorist threats persist.