At least nine militants linked to Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists were eliminated in a three-day joint operation by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Upper Dir district, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Syed Muhammad Bilal said that the security forces launched the clearance operation across nearly 20 square kilometres, targeting multiple hideouts in forested and mountainous terrain. The operation covered several areas, including Hill Top, Dobando Dara, Masala Banda, Shandal Bagh, Itan Dara, Bagh Kale, and Sanger.
“Five bodies of terrorists have been recovered, and the search is still ongoing,” SSP Bilal said, adding that heavy rains and difficult topography were slowing down the clearance efforts.
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The operation came at a cost, with two civilians losing their lives and 10 personnel of the police and CTD sustaining injuries. Despite these sacrifices, security forces managed to break through militant strongholds and prevent further attacks.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the bravery and professionalism of the forces involved, calling the operation a major success against Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists. He expressed sorrow over civilian casualties, offered prayers for their families, and directed authorities to provide the injured with the best possible medical treatment.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also praised the KP Police and CTD for their swift action, stating: “By sending nine terrorists to their ultimate end, the KP Police and CTD have demonstrated exceptional courage. The entire nation is proud of their valour.”
Pakistan has witnessed a sharp increase in terrorist incidents in recent years, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), June alone saw 78 attacks, killing at least 100 people, including 53 security personnel and 39 civilians.
Security forces have stepped up counterterrorism efforts, with several targeted operations carried out in KP and Balochistan. Earlier this month, 47 Indian-backed militants attempting to infiltrate from Afghanistan were killed in Balochistan’s Zhob district.
