RAWALPINDI: Security forces carried out an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Dera Ismail Khan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the elimination of at least ten terrorists, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Thursday.
According to a statement from the military’s media wing, the operation was launched on March 20, 2025, following credible intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area.
“During the operation, our troops stealthily surrounded the terrorists’ location and engaged them effectively, resulting in all ten terrorists being neutralized,” the ISPR stated.
The operation, however, came at a cost. Captain Hasnain Akhtar, a 24-year-old officer from Jhelum district, led his troops from the front and was martyred during the intense exchange of fire. The ISPR praised Captain Akhtar for his bravery and dedication, noting that he was known for his courage and bold actions in previous operations.
“Captain Hasnain fought gallantly and made the ultimate sacrifice, embracing Shahadat,” the statement added.
The security forces also recovered weapons and ammunition from the killed terrorists, who were reportedly involved in numerous attacks against law enforcement agencies and the targeted killings of innocent civilians.
The ISPR further mentioned that a sanitization operation is underway to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the area. “The security forces of Pakistan are determined to eradicate the menace of terrorism from the country. The sacrifices of our brave officers only strengthen our resolve,” the statement emphasized.
Pakistan has faced a surge in terrorist activities, particularly in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan in 2021. These regions, especially those bordering Afghanistan, have witnessed a significant increase in attacks targeting security forces and civilians.
According to data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), the country experienced a 42% rise in terror attacks in January 2025 compared to the previous month. A total of 74 militant attacks were recorded nationwide, resulting in 91 fatalities, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Additionally, 117 individuals were injured, including 53 security forces personnel, 54 civilians, and 10 militants.
KP remained the most affected province, with 27 attacks in its settled districts leading to 19 deaths, including 11 security personnel, six civilians, and two militants. The tribal districts of KP (formerly FATA) witnessed 19 attacks, resulting in 46 fatalities, including 13 security personnel, eight civilians, and 25 militants.
The ongoing efforts of Pakistan’s security forces to combat terrorism highlight their unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region, despite the heavy toll of sacrifices.
