Pakistan security forces decimate Indian-backed network in sweeping raids

At least 31 terrorists affiliated with the Indian-backed militant outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were neutralized in two high-stakes operations conducted by Pakistani security forces in Lakki Marwat and Bannu districts on September 13 and 14, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), announced.

According to ISPR, the operations were initiated following credible intelligence indicating the presence of militants from the Indian proxy group Fitna al-Khawarij. These terrorists were allegedly involved in orchestrating multiple attacks targeting security personnel and civilians, Caliber.Az reports, citing Pakistani media.

The first operation, carried out in Lakki Marwat, focused on a key terrorist hideout. Security forces engaged in a fierce gunbattle, resulting in the elimination of 14 militants.

In a separate but simultaneous counterterrorism operation in Bannu district, security personnel once again engaged hostile militants in a heavy exchange of fire, killing 17 more terrorists. ISPR confirmed that both operations dealt a significant blow to the operational capability of the TTP and its affiliates in the region.

Ongoing search and clearance operations are being conducted in both districts to ensure the complete eradication of residual militant threats. Several hideouts were destroyed, and weapons caches were seized during the missions.

These latest successes follow earlier intensive operations in Bajaur and South Waziristan districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where security forces neutralized 35 TTP militants in a series of encounters.

In the Bajaur operation, launched on the basis of actionable intelligence, security forces engaged a large group of militants and successfully eliminated 22 terrorists after a prolonged firefight.

A separate operation in South Waziristan resulted in the killing of 13 more militants. The slain individuals were reportedly responsible for a string of violent attacks in the area. Security personnel also recovered a cache of weapons and ammunition from the sites.

Tragically, 12 soldiers embraced martyrdom during these operations while valiantly defending the country.

ISPR emphasized that Pakistan’s armed forces remain resolute in their mission to root out terrorism from the country.

By Vafa Guliyeva