Security forces have reported killing 49 militants in intelligence-based operations in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), according to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The operations were carried out as part of the country’s ongoing counterterrorism campaign. ISPR said the aim was to stop militant groups from disturbing peace and stability in Pakistan.
According to the military, several operations were conducted in Bannu, North Waziristan, Orakzai and Khyber in KP. ISPR said 12 militants linked to what the state calls Fitna al-Khawarij were killed during these operations.
The military described the group as being supported by India. In Balochistan, security forces killed another 37 militants linked to what the state calls Fitna al-Hindustan. Security forces also recovered weapons, explosives and equipment used for remote-controlled detonations, according to ISPR. The recovered material was later destroyed.
The military said its forces remained committed to protecting the country and would continue operations against militant groups. Security forces are also carrying out sanitisation operations in the areas where militants are believed to be hiding.
These operations are aimed at finding any remaining militants and preventing further attacks. The latest operations highlight the continuing security challenge in both Balochistan and K-P.
While the government says military action is necessary to stop terrorism, lasting peace will also require efforts to address the wider political, economic and social problems affecting these regions.
ISPR said the counterterrorism campaign would continue until the threat of terrorism was eliminated. For ordinary citizens, the key issue is whether these operations can translate into lasting security and peace, allowing people in the affected areas to return to normal life.
