At least 15 militants were killed by armed forces during an intelligence-led operation in Balochistan’s Zhob district, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.
According to the army’s media wing, the IBO operation was conducted on December 10 in General Area Sambaza during which its troops effectively located the hideout of the terrorists.
“Huge quantity of arms, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the slain Khawarij,” the statement said.
However, it added, September Arifur Rehman (age 32 years; resident of Mansehra district) was martyred after fighting bravely during the fierce exchange of fire.
“A sanitization operation is underway to neutralize any other outliers in the area,” ISPR said.
It said that the security forces of Pakistan are committed to eradicating the scourge of terrorism from the country along with the nation and the sacrifices of the brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve.
It is worth noting here that the third quarter of 2024 (July-September) saw a sharp increase in terrorist violence and deaths in counter-terrorism operations, with a 90 percent increase in violence, according to the Center for According to a report released by Research End. Security Studies (CRSS).
A total of 722 people were killed, including civilians, security personnel and illegals, while 615 others were injured in 328 cases assessed.
About 97 percent of these deaths occurred in KP and Balochistan – the highest percentage in a decade, and more than 92 percent of these incidents of terrorist attacks and security forces operations were recorded in the same provinces.
The total deaths from the three quarters of this year have now surpassed the total recorded for the whole of 2023. The number of deaths rose to at least 1,534 in the first three quarters, compared to 1,523 in 2023.
Meanwhile, terrorist groups continue to reorganize and strengthen their ranks. According to the report, most of the terrorist attacks went unpunished by terrorist or insurgent groups, possibly due to tactics.