RAWALPINDI — Ten terrorists linked to Indian-sponsored outfits were killed in multiple engagements with Pakistani security forces across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa between September 15 and 17, while six soldiers embraced martyrdom when an improvised explosive device targeted their convoy, the Inter-Services Public Relations announced on Thursday.
Intelligence-Based Operations in North Waziristan and Hangu
According to the military’s media wing, security forces launched an intelligence-based operation in North Waziristan District following credible reports of militant presence in the area. Troops effectively engaged the militants’ location, and after an intense exchange of fire, six terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij were killed.
In a separate encounter in Hangu District, security forces neutralised four additional militants, bringing the total number of terrorists eliminated during the three-day period to ten. The ISPR identified the slain militants as members of Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the militants, who had remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the region, the statement added.
Six Soldiers Martyred in IED Explosion
On September 17, six soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice when an improvised explosive device exploded on a security forces convoy. The military’s media wing confirmed the incident, stating that sanitisation operations were being conducted in the area to eliminate any remaining militants who might be present.
The ISPR said security forces and law enforcement agencies were continuing the counterterrorism campaign under the vision of “Azm-e-Istehkam,” approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan.
“The campaign will continue at full pace to eliminate the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” the ISPR stated. “The sacrifices of our brave soldiers further reinforce our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation at all costs.”
Leadership Pays Tribute to Fallen Soldiers
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tribute to the security forces for their successful operations against Indian-backed militants in Hangu and North Waziristan districts.
In separately issued statements, both leaders praised the bravery and professionalism of the security forces while honouring the six personnel who embraced martyrdom during the operations. They prayed for the elevation of the martyred soldiers’ ranks in paradise and expressed deep sympathy and condolences to the bereaved families.
Commending the courage and sacrifices of the armed forces, President Zardari said, “The great sacrifices of the martyrs further strengthen the resolve and morale of the nation. The brave soldiers of Pakistan are sacrificing their lives for the defense and peace of the motherland.”
He added that the sacrifices of the security forces in the war against terrorism were unforgettable.
Paying tribute to the martyred soldiers, Prime Minister Shehbaz said, “Our brave sons of the soil who sacrificed their lives for the defense, peace, and security of the beloved motherland are heroes of the entire nation. The great sacrifices of the martyrs are a guiding light for the nation, and their sacrifices will not go in vain.”
The prime minister reiterated that under Azm-e-Istehkam, operations by security forces and law enforcement agencies for the complete eradication of terrorism would continue with full force.
Ongoing Counterterrorism Campaign
The operations form part of Pakistan’s broader counterterrorism strategy under Azm-e-Istehkam, a renewed national vision approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan. The campaign aims to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country through coordinated operations by security forces and law enforcement agencies.
Security forces have pledged to continue sanitisation operations in affected areas to ensure no militant presence remains, underscoring the military’s determination to safeguard the nation at all costs.
