RAWALPINDI: In a major counterterrorism breakthrough, Pakistani security forces eliminated nine terrorists, including a high-value target (HVT), in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Dera Ismail Khan (DI Khan), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
According to a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Monday, the operation was conducted in the Takwara area on the night between April 6 and 7, based on credible intelligence inputs about terrorist presence.
Ring Leader Shireen Killed
The IBO led to an intense exchange of fire, during which the terrorists were neutralized. Among the dead was ring leader Shireen, a wanted militant responsible for the targeted killing of civilians and the martyrdom of Captain Hasnain Akhtar on March 20, 2025.
“Today’s operation has avenged the heinous act,” the ISPR stated.
“Sanitisation of the area is ongoing to ensure no other terrorist presence.”
Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the site.
National Leadership Commends Forces
President Asif Ali Zardari lauded the armed forces, calling the elimination of the terrorist leader a significant success in the country’s ongoing anti-terror efforts.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif also praised the operation, stating:
“The entire nation stands firmly with the security forces in the fight against terrorism. We are committed to eradicating this menace in all its forms.”
Border Security in Focus
This latest IBO comes on the heels of another incident where eight terrorists were killed during an infiltration attempt from Afghanistan in North Waziristan on the night of April 5-6.
Pakistan has repeatedly urged the interim Afghan government to ensure their territory is not used by terror outfits like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to launch attacks across the border.
A recent UN Security Council report supports Pakistan’s concerns, pointing to a logistical, operational, and financial nexus between the TTP and Kabul authorities.
Persistent Threat, Unyielding Resolve
With a 2,500-kilometre porous border between the two countries, Pakistan faces persistent challenges in border management. However, security forces remain resolute in their mission.
“Security forces are determined and remain committed to securing Pakistan’s borders and eliminating the scourge of terrorism,” the ISPR concluded.
Sanitisation operations continue in affected areas to ensure complete elimination of terrorist elements.
