17 Indian-sponsored militants eliminated in Lakki Marwat IBO: ISPR
Pakistani security forces successfully killed 17 Indian-sponsored militants during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Lakki Marwat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Saturday.
The operation, carried out on the night of September 26-27, targeted members of the proxy group Fitna al-Khawarij.
Details of the Operation
According to ISPR, troops effectively engaged the militant hideout, neutralizing all 17 attackers. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who had been involved in numerous acts of v!0lence against security forces and law enforcement agencies.
A sanitisation operation was launched to clear the area of any remaining militants. ISPR reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to wipe out Indian-sponsored terror networks across the country.
PM Shehbaz Praises Troops
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the operation, calling the forces “valiant sentinels” of the nation.
He said the militants’ “evil designs were crushed” thanks to the timely and professional action of Pakistan’s forces. The premier also prayed for the recovery of injured personnel and reiterated the government’s resolve to eradicate terrorism.
Interior Minister Naqvi’s Statement
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the bravery and professionalism of the troops, saying their actions “thwarted malicious designs” and protected peace and stability.
He saluted the soldiers for their sacrifices and vowed continued government support for security agencies in ensuring lasting peace across Pakistan.
Rising Terror Threat
Pakistan has witnessed a surge in cross-border terror incidents since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021. August alone saw a 74% increase in attacks compared to July, with 194 fatalities recorded, according to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS).
Meanwhile, Pakistan, China, Iran, and Russia have urged Afghan authorities to take concrete actions against militant groups, dismantle their networks, and prevent Afghan soil from being used for attacks against neighboring states.
