RAWALPINDI — Pakistani security forces killed 13 terrorists in two separate intelligence-driven operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province between Nov. 20 and 21, the military said in a statement on Friday, according to APP.
According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the first engagement took place in Paharkhel, located in the Lakki Marwat district. Acting on credible intelligence about the presence of militants, security forces and law enforcement agencies launched a joint operation in the area. During the exchange of fire, troops engaged the militants’ positions and killed ten terrorists after what officials described as an intense firefight.
A second operation was conducted in Dera Ismail Khan district, where security personnel again confronted armed militants. In the ensuing clash, three terrorists were eliminated.
The ISPR reported that weapons and ammunition were recovered from the dead assailants, adding that the group had been involved in multiple attacks on security forces, law enforcement agencies, and targeted killings of civilians.
Following the operations, troops began sanitization efforts in the surrounding areas to ensure no remaining militants were hiding nearby. Authorities said these actions form part of Pakistan’s ongoing counterterrorism campaign under the national “Azm-e-Istehkam” framework, approved by the Federal Apex Committee overseeing the National Action Plan.
The campaign, according to officials, aims to dismantle foreign-backed militant networks and prevent renewed terrorist activity across the country. Security forces emphasized that operations would continue “at full pace” as Pakistan attempts to strengthen internal security and curb cross-border militant influence.
The latest operations underscore the persistent instability in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where militant activity has surged intermittently despite intensified security measures. Authorities maintain that sustained pressure on armed groups remains critical to restoring long-term peace in the region.
