Dera Ismail Khan: At least ten terrorists were killed during a successful intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dera Ismail Khan district. The operation was launched on March 20, 2025, after receiving specific intelligence about the presence of militants in the area. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed the details on Thursday.
According to the military’s media wing, security forces quietly surrounded the location. The troops then launched a swift and precise strike against the terrorists. As a result, all ten militants were neutralized during the exchange of fire. The ISPR referred to the killed terrorists as “khwarij,” a term used for extremists.
Tragically, during the intense fire exchange, Captain Hasnain Akhtar embraced martyrdom. He was leading his men from the front and fought bravely until his last breath. The young officer, just 24 years old, was a resident of Jhelum district. He had a reputation for courage and had shown remarkable bravery in earlier counter-terror operations.
Captain Hasnain was widely admired for his daring actions. His leadership during critical missions earned him respect across the ranks. His sacrifice is a reminder of the price paid in the fight against terrorist attacks.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists. The ISPR revealed that these extremists were involved in various terrorist attacks. They had targeted law enforcement agencies and killed innocent civilians in the region.
Following the operation, a thorough sanitization mission is underway. The aim is to eliminate any remaining militants in the area. The military reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism from the country. According to the ISPR, such sacrifices by brave soldiers further strengthen the nation’s resolve.
Pakistan continues to suffer from frequent terrorist attacks. The situation has worsened since the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan in 2021. The increase in violence is especially severe in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
In January 2025, Pakistan experienced a sharp rise in terrorist activities. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), militant attacks rose by 42% compared to December 2024. The data recorded 74 terrorist attacks across the country. These incidents caused 91 deaths, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Another 117 people were injured—53 from security forces, 54 civilians, and 10 militants.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was the most affected province. Balochistan followed closely behind. In KP’s settled districts, militants carried out 27 attacks. These claimed 19 lives—11 from the security forces, six civilians, and two attackers. Meanwhile, KP’s tribal districts, formerly known as FATA, witnessed 19 attacks. These resulted in 46 fatalities, including 13 security personnel, eight civilians, and 25 militants.
The growing threat of militant violence remains a serious challenge for the country. Yet, the courage shown by officers like Captain Hasnain Akhtar offers hope. Pakistan’s security forces remain determined to defeat every terrorist attack and eliminate extremism from the region.
