The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced that eight suspect terrorists, who were described as “India-sponsored,” were killed in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) carried out within the Bannu district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The operation, conducted through Pakistani Security forces was designed to thwart a network of militants that is believed to be that was involved in coordination across borders, attack on security personnel as well as attempts to undermine internal security.
As per the ISPR security forces, they launched the operation following reliable information about the existence of an armed group that was planning attack in the area. The statement said the fact that militants are associated with networks that were backed by people across the border. They have been involved in multiple incidents that targeted civilians as well as military personnel.
Security officials reported that as they were entering the hideout, terrorists opened fire, which led to a tense exchange. The troops responded with aplomb and ended up removing of eight terrorists. Weapons, ammunition and communication equipment were recovered from the area. According to the ISPR also provided evidence of support from outside and coordination.
The ISPR stated that the mission is part of the ongoing national anti-terrorism efforts to dismantle groups operating inside Pakistan. The ISPR also stated the Pakistani security force are dedicated to ensuring peace and stability. They will continue to hunt down individuals or groups who are involved in the act of terror.
Bannu and the surrounding areas have seen a number of security operations in the past few years due to militant activities. Analysts have noted that the proximity of the area to the border as well as its difficult terrain has enabled certain groups to try to create operational hideouts. Security forces have intensified surveillance and sharing of intelligence to stop the networks from regrouping.
Local authorities have reported that there were there were no civilian casualties during the mission. But, they warned that the risk of militancy remained and advised residents to work with police officials by making reports of suspicious activity.
The ISPR stated the fact that Pakistan has repeatedly expressed concern about the involvement of foreigners in militant activities on its borders. The statement linked the latest incident to what was called support coming from outside of the country. Although Pakistan has repeatedly expressed these concerns but independent evidence of the assertions was not in the moment of writing.
After the incident an investigation and clearance procedure was launched in the vicinity to secure the surrounding area and ensure there was no further threat. The equipment recovered from the communications will be subject to an analysis of forensics to determine the broader connections of the group as well as its organizational structure.
Officials acknowledged that the security forces of Pakistan continue to carry out targeted actions using intelligence to deter planned attacks. Authorities stressed that ensuring the stability of the country is a top issue, particularly as the country is constantly facing security issues.
The ISPR concluded its speech by reaffirming the determination of Pakistan’s military to eliminate threats to national security and protect it. The ISPR also stated its appreciation for the public’s assistance in fighting terrorists, saying that a partnership between the public and security forces plays an important role in ensuring peace for the long term.