Pakistan needs a new military operation to root out terrorism

[hassan918]

Five terrorists killed while attempting to infiltrate Balochistan’s Zhob: ISPR​

Security forces killed five terrorists who attempted to cross the Afghan border and infiltrate Balochistan’s Zhob district, the military’s media wing said in a statement on Sunday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces detected a group of terrorists attempting to cross the Afghan border in Zhob’s Sambaza area in the wee hours of Sunday.

“Own troops effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt to infiltrate. Resultantly, five Khwarij were sent to hell,” said the ISPR in the statement, using the term designating members of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have lately been strained due to frequent border skirmishes and Islamabad repeatedly demanding Kabul take action against the TTP for using Afghan soil to launch attacks in Pakistan. Kabul denies the allegations.

The outlawed group has increased attacks on security forces and other law enforcement personnel since breaking a fragile ceasefire agreement with the Pakistani government in 2022.

The ISPR statement reiterated that Pakistan has “consistently been asking [the] interim Afghan government to ensure effective border management on their side of the border”.

“[The] interim Afghan Government is expected to fulfil its obligations and deny the use of Afghan soil by khwarij for perpetuating acts of terrorism against Pakistan,” the statement read.

The military’s media wing said that security forces “remain committed to secure its (Pakistan’s) borders & eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country”.

Last month, security forces killed four terrorists and foiled an infiltration attempt by a group of terrorists trying to cross the Afghan border into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Khyber district, the military said.

The ISPR said troops effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt to infiltrate, and as a result, four terrorists were killed. However, during the intense fire exchange, Sepoy Amir Sohail Afridi, 22, was martyred.

In December, Pakistani fighter jets bombed four locations, said to be camps of the banned TTP, in Afghanistan’s eastern Paktika province, killing and wounding several suspected terrorists, security officials said.

Sources said that TTP camps in the Murgha and Laman areas of Bernal district were targeted, including one that was used by Sher Zaman alias Mukhlis Yar, Commander Abu Hamza, Commander Akhtar Muhammad and the head of TTP’s media arm, Umar Media.

Army Chief General Asim Munir said on January 14 that Afghanistan was a “brotherly neighbour [and] an Islamic country” with which Pakistan “has always wanted” better relations.

“The only difference with Afghanistan is the presence of Fitna al-Khawarij in Afghanistan and the spread of terrorism in Pakistan from across the border, and it will remain so until they remove this issue,” the army chief was quoted as saying.

Source: DAWN

 

[hassan918]

Gunship helicopters target terrorist hideouts in Lower Kurram​

Security forces have intensified operations against terrorists in multiple areas of Lower Kurram, deploying gunship helicopters to target hideouts in the region.

The two days of the operation have caused significant disruption to civilian life, with food and medical supplies running critically low due to road closures.

According to the district administration, security forces have focused their efforts in areas such as Bagan, Charkhel, Pistavani, and the mountains of Zarana in Central Kurram. Gunship helicopters have shelled suspected terrorist hideouts. Tribal elders in the region have welcomed the operation, though concerns about its impact on civilians persist.

Meanwhile, a case was registered in the terrorist attack on a convoy carrying essential supplies to Parachinar. The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Kurram Police Station registered the case against 20 unidentified suspects under multiple sections, including anti-terrorism laws.

The first information report (FIR), registered on the complaint of Lower Kurram SHO Ahmedi Shama Abdul Qadir, states that the assailants opened fire on the convoy with heavy weapons, killing two security personnel. Five other personnel sustained injuries during the attack. Following the assault, the attackers set vehicles ablaze and abducted eight drivers. Looting by up to 200 suspects was also reported.

A tribal elders' jirga had earlier set a three-day deadline for the reopening of roads blocked due to the operation, but the deadline has now been postponed. Citizens are facing significant hardships as essential goods remain inaccessible, exacerbating the region’s already precarious situation.

Source: SAMAA

 

[hassan918]

Security forces neutralise Afghan national involved in terrorism during Zhob operation: ISPR​

Security forces have neutralised an Afghan national linked to terrorism in the country during an operation in Balochistan’s Zhob district, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.

In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said, “On January 11, 2025, an Afghan national, involved in terrorism inside Pakistan, was killed in the Sambaza area of Zhob district of Balochistan.”

“The individual was identified as Muhammad Khan Ahmedkhel, Son of Haji Qasim Dawran Khan, resident of Village Bilorai, District Wazekhwa, Paktika Province, Afghanistan,” the statement added.

The statement said Ahmedkhel’s body was handed over to Afghan officials on Monday after necessary procedural formalities.

“Such incidents are irrefutable evidence of the involvement of Afghan nationals in terrorist activities in Pakistan,” the statement said.

“Interim Afghan government is expected to fulfil its obligations and deny the use of Afghan soil by terrorists for perpetuating acts of terrorism against Pakistan,” the ISPR statement concluded.

Islamabad has consistently voiced concerns that the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) uses Afghan soil to launch attacks in Pakistan, asking the Afghanistan government to rein in the group. Kabul denies the allegations.

Owing to the issue, Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan have lately turned tumultuous, marked by frequent border skirmishes.

In a meeting last week, the political leadership asked the military’s top brass to engage with Afghanistan to address security issues.

In an almost four-hour-long meeting with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, the representatives of several political parties expressed concerns over the prevailing law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

However, the COAS pointed out that the Afghan interim rulers had failed to adhere to repeated warnings in the past.

“They don’t listen to us,” a source quoted the army chief as saying in reply to the suggestion of formal or informal dialogue with the interim Afghan government.

In the face of recurring attacks, security forces have also increased targeted operations in Balochistan and KP.

On Sunday, security forces killed five terrorists when they were attempting to infiltrate Pakistan from Afghanistan, the ISPR said in a statement.

It said a group of terrorists attempted to cross the Pakistan-Afghanistan border through the Sambaza area of Zhob district on the night between Saturday and Sunday.

This is the same area where the Afghan national was killed, according to the ISPR.

Source: DAWN

 

[hassan918]

Security forces neutralise 6 terrorists in Balochistan’s Zhob district: ISPR​

Security forces have neutralised six terrorists in Balochistan’s Zhob district while they were trying to infiltrate into the province through the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, the military’s media wing said on Thursday.

According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), “On [the] night of 22/23 January, movement of a group of khwarij, who were trying to infiltrate through Pakistan-Afghanistan border, was picked up by the security forces in general area Sambaza, Zhob District.”

“Own troops effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt to infiltrate. Resultantly, six khwarij were sent to hell,” it said, referring to the term used by the state for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

The statement added that following the operation, the forces also recovered a large quantity of weapons, ammunition, and explosives.

“Pakistan has consistently been asking the Interim Afghan government to ensure effective border management on their side of the border. The Interim Afghan Government is expected to fulfil its obligations and deny the use of Afghan soil by khwarij for perpetuating acts of terrorism against Pakistan.

“Security Forces of Pakistan remain committed to secure its borders & eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country,” it said.

Earlier this week, the ISPR revealed that on Jan 11, security forces had killed an Afghan national — involved in terrorism inside Pakistan — during an operation in Zhob.

“The individual was identified as Muhammad Khan Ahmedkhel, Son of Haji Qasim Dawran Khan, resident of Village Bilorai, District Wazekhwa, Paktika Province, Afghanistan,” the ISPR had said.

The statement added that Ahmedkhel’s body was handed over to Afghan officials on Monday after necessary procedural formalities.

“Such incidents are irrefutable evidence of the involvement of Afghan nationals in terrorist activities in Pakistan,” it had added.

Islamabad has consistently voiced concerns that the outlawed TTP uses Afghan soil to launch attacks in Pakistan, asking the Afghanistan government to rein in the group. Kabul denies the allegations.

Owing to the issue, Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan have lately turned tumultuous, marked by frequent border skirmishes.

In a meeting last week, the political leadership asked the military’s top brass to engage with Afghanistan to address security issues.

In an almost four-hour-long meeting with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, the representatives of several political parties expressed concerns over the prevailing law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

However, the COAS pointed out that the Afghan interim rulers had failed to adhere to repeated warnings in the past.

“They don’t listen to us,” a source quoted the army chief as saying in reply to the suggestion of formal or informal dialogue with the interim Afghan government.

In the face of recurring attacks, security forces have also increased targeted operations in Balochistan and KP.

Source: DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Senior terrorists' leaders killed in Khyber district IBOs​

Pakistani security forces killed four terrorists, including two senior leaders, during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber district, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed.

The operation targeted a terrorist hideout in the Bagh area of Khyber district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province after intelligence reports confirmed the presence of extremists, Express News reported.

The operation led to the elimination of Aziz-ur-Rehman, also known as Qari Ismail, and another senior terrorist leader, Mukhlis, ISPR said in a statement.

Two other terrorists were injured, and weapons and ammunition were recovered from the site.

“These terrorists were involved in multiple acts of terrorism targeting security forces and innocent civilians,” the ISPR said, adding that a clearance operation is underway to eliminate any remaining threats in the area.

The military reiterated its commitment to eradicating terrorism, stating that such operations are part of broader efforts to ensure national security.

Earlier this week, a terrorist identified as an Afghan national was killed in Sambaza, Zhob district of Balochistan on 11 January 2025, the ISPR reported on Tuesday.

The individual, Muhammad Khan Ahmedkhel, son of Haji Qasim Dawran Khan, was a resident of Bilorai village in Wazekhwa district, Paktika province, Afghanistan.

The deceased was involved in acts of terrorism within Pakistan, the ISPR stated.

After completing legal formalities, Ahmedkhel’s body was handed over to officials of the Interim Afghan Government (IAG) on 20 January.

ISPR noted the incident as "irrefutable evidence of Afghan nationals’ involvement in terrorist activities within Pakistan." The military urged Kabul to "fulfil its responsibilities" by ensuring Afghan soil is not used to launch terror attacks against Pakistan.

In 2024, the Pakistan Army conducted a record 59,775 intelligence-based operations, eliminating 925 terrorists, including 73 high-value targets—the highest number of neutralised militants in five years.

Senior terrorists' leaders killed in IBO in Khyber district | The Express Tribune

ISPR confirms death of senior terrorist leaders during operation in Bagh

tribune.com.pk

 

[BouncerGuy]

2 soldiers martyred, 6 terrorists killed in KP operation: ISPR

Two soldiers were martyred and six terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the North Waziristan district, the military’s media wing said on Thursday.

A statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said: “On January 29-30 2025, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in general area Mir Ali, North Waziristan District on [the] reported presence of khwarij.

“During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location and resultantly six khwarij were sent to hell,” ISPR said, using the term designating members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

It added that Major Hamza Israr, 29, a resident of Rawalpindi district, and Sepoy Muhammad Naeem, 26, a resident of Naseerabad district “fought gallantly” during the intense exchanges of fire and were martyred.

Sanitisation operations were being conducted to eliminate any other terrorists, ISPR said.

“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” ISPR concluded.

Pakistan has recently witnessed an uptick in terror activities, especially in KP and Balochistan.

Terror attacks have increased since the TTP broke a fragile ceasefire agreement with the government. With at least 685 members of security forces losing their lives amid a total of 444 terror attacks, 2024 turned out to be the deadliest year for the civil and military security forces of Pakistan in a decade.

Equally alarming were the cumulative losses of civilians and security personnel: 1,612 fatalities, accounting for over 63 per cent of the total recorded the past year and marking 73pc more losses compared to 934 outlaws eliminated. The overall fatalities recorded last year were a record nine-year high, and over 66pc more than in 2023. On average, nearly seven lives were lost daily.

DAWN NEWS

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Naqvi condemns firing incident on Police checkpost Bahadurkhel in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has strongly condemned the firing attack on Police Checkpost Bahadurkhel in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the martyrdom of two police personnel.

Mohsin Naqvi paid tribute to the martyred police personnel and expressed heartfelt condolences to their families.
He also prayed for the swift recovery of the injured police personnel.

The Interior Minister denounced the cowardly attack by terrorists of Fitanah Al-Khawarij on the police checkpost under the cover of darkness.
He praised the sacrifices of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police personnel, who are at the forefront of the fight against terrorism.

He emphasized that the brave personnel of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police have nurtured peace in the country with their blood, and their invaluable sacrifices will always be remembered.

Source: APP

 

[FearlessRoar]

Security forces kill three terrorists in North Waziristan IBO: ISPR

At least three terrorists were killed on Friday during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the North Waziristan district, said a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The military's media wing added that the terrorists were attempting to escape wearing women's attire (burqa) when they were engaged by security forces.

The IBO was conducted on the night of February 6 and 7 in the general area of Datta Khel on reported presence of terrorists.

"During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location as a result of which three khwarij were sent to hell, who were trying to escape wearing women attire (burqa)," the military's media wing said.

Personnel of the security forces also recovered weapons and ammunition from the killed terrorists, "who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area," it added.

"Sanitisation operation is being conducted to eliminate any other kharji found in the area, as security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country."

The country witnessed a sharp increase in terror attacks in January 2025, surging by 42% compared to the previous month, according to data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), a think tank.

The data revealed that at least 74 militant attacks were recorded nationwide, resulting in 91 fatalities, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Another 117 individuals sustained injuries, including 53 security forces personnel, 54 civilians, and 10 militants.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained the worst-affected province, followed by Balochistan. In KP's settled districts, militants carried out 27 attacks, resulting in 19 fatalities, including 11 security personnel, six civilians, and two militants.

The tribal districts of KP (erstwhile Fata) witnessed 19 attacks, leading to 46 deaths, including 13 security personnel, eight civilians, and 25 militants.

Security forces kill three terrorists in North Waziristan IBO: ISPR

Terrorists attempted to escape by wearing burqa, says military's media wing

www.geo.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

Seven terrorists killed in D.I. Khan, North Waziristan operations: ISPR

Seven terrorists were killed and a soldier was martyred in different encounters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday, official sources said.

According to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces carried out an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Maddi area of Dera Ismail Khan district on the reported presence of armed men in the area on the night between Feb 8 and 9.

During an exchange of fire, three terrorists were killed and two others were wounded.

Sources said the militants killed in the operation were expert in making improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and bombs, and they were involved in multiple acts of terrorism. After the operation, the sources said, security forces launched a search operation in the area to track down accomplices of the militants.

The ISPR said that another operation against terrorists was carried out in the Mir Ali tehsil of North Waziristan. The operation triggered an exchange of fire during which security forces shot dead four militants while three others were injured.

It added that a sanitisation operation was being conducted in the area to eliminate any other terrorist as members of security forces were determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appreciated security forces for carrying out a successful operation against the ‘Fitna-al-Khawarij’ terrorists in D.I. Khan and North Waziristan districts, adds APP.

Meanwhile, a soldier was martyred and three others were injured in an exchange of fire with terrorists in the Hassan Khel subdivision on the border between Peshawar and Kohat.

“The operation was carried out by members of security forces,” the sources said, adding that there were reports about casualties among terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, but those reports could not be confirmed.

No statement was issued by the ISPR on the encounter in the Hassan Khel area till the filing of this report on Sunday night.

The subdivision, a previously Frontier Region (FR) Peshawar, is located some 40km south of the provincial capital.

The crossfire erupted around 8:15am during an IBO carried out jointly by the police, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and security forces in the Rokhan Khel village of Kandao area in Hassan Khel subdivision.

“The exchange of fire continued for hours as law-enforcement agencies surrounded a few abandoned houses. Raheem of the banned TTP and two of his accomplices were killed in the joint IBO,” an official said, adding that a combing operation was initiated but postponed after dusk.

Two killed in Bannu

Separately, two men were killed in the Gurbaz Bakkakhel area of Bannu district, on Sunday, officials said.

They said armed men kidnapped police constable Riazullah of the Utmanzai police station in Wazir subdivision and Habibullah, a resident of Shoikhel Bakkakhel, taking them to the Gurbaz Bakkakhel area where they were killed.

He described personal enmity as motive for the killing and added that an investigation was underway.

The captors also filmed the incident and uploaded it on social media platforms. In a video, gunmen could be seen spraying both captives with bullets, killing them on the spot. However, authenticity of the video could not be verified immediately.

Seven terrorists killed in D.I. Khan, North Waziristan operations: ISPR

Soldier martyred near Peshawar; two killed in Bannu by armed men.

www.dawn.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

Four army personnel martyred, 15 terrorists killed in KP operations: ISPR

Four soldiers were martyred while 15 terrorists were killed in two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) carried out in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Saturday, according to the military’s media wing.

Pakistan has recently witnessed an uptick in terror activities, especially in KP and Balochistan. Terror attacks have increased since the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) broke a fragile ceasefire agreement with the government in 2022.

A statement from the the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the first IBO took place in Dera Ismail Khan district’s general area of Hathala on the reported presence of terrorists in the area.

It said security forces effectively engaged the terrorists at their location and resultantly, nine of them, including high-value target ringleaders Farman alias Saqib, Kharji Amanullah alias Toori, Kharji Saeed alias Liaqat and Kharji Bilal, “were sent to hell”.

The ISPR said the slain were involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area and were highly wanted by law enforcement agencies.

It said the second IBO was conducted in the general area of Miranshah in North Waziristan district where six more terrorists were “effectively neutralised by the security forces”.

“However, during an intense fire exchange, Lieutenant Muhammad Hassaan Arshaf, 21, resident of Lahore district, leading his troops from the front, fought gallantly and embraced martyrdom along with his three men,” the ISPR said.

“The three soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice include Naib Subedar Muhammad Bilal, 39, resident of Dera Ismail Khan district, Sepoy Farhat Ullah, 27, resident of Lakki Marwat district and Sepoy Himat Khan, 29, resident of Momand district,” it continued.

The ISPR added that sanitisation operations were being conducted to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area.

“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve,” the statement concluded.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised security forces for their successful operation against terrorists in KP, paying tribute to the four martyred security personnel in separate statements.

In a statement released by the Presidency, President Zardari said that the nation would always remember the sacrifices of its valiant martyrs, and praised their patriotism and bravery. He also reiterated the “unflinching national resolve” to continue operations until the complete elimination of terrorism, The Associated Press of Pakistan reported.

The PM paid tribute to the martyred personnel who sacrificed themselves during the operation, according to a statement on X.

“The entire nation, including me, is proud of our martyrs and their families,” PM Shehbaz was quoted as saying. “We will continue the fight against terrorism until it is completely eradicated from the country. We will never allow the terrorists’ nefarious intentions to disrupt the peace of the country to succeed.”

The PM said that the nation salutes “its brave forces” for their unwavering commitment to national security. “The officers and men of the Pakistani Armed Forces are working day and night to protect the homeland, risking their lives,” he stated.

Earlier in the week, security forces killed 13 terrorists in five separate operations carried out across KP on Thursday night.

With at least 685 members of security forces losing their lives amid a total of 444 terror attacks, 2024 turned out to be the deadliest year for the civil and military security forces of Pakistan in a decade, according to a 2024 report issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies think-tank.

According to the ISPR Director General, security forces conducted a total of 59,775 operations last year during which 925 terrorists were killed and 383 officers and soldiers were martyred.

DAWN NEWS

 

[hassan918]

7 terrorists killed in separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s DI Khan: ISPR​

Security forces killed seven terrorists in two separate operations carried out in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dera Ismail Khan district, the military’s media wing said on Sunday.

According to a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the first operation took place in the Daraban area of the district.

Security personnel engaged the terrorists and “four khwarij were sent to hell”, the ISPR said, using the descriptor designating members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

In the second operation, reported in the district’s Maddi area, security forces killed three terrorists.

“Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area,” the statement read.

The ISPR added, “Sanitisation operations are being conducted to eliminate any other kharji found in the area as the security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country.”

These operations come days after security forces killed six terrorists in an intelligence-based operation in KP’s Karak district, the military’s media affairs wing said on Friday.

According to the ISPR, security forces “effectively engaged” after they received information regarding the presence of terrorists in the area.

Separately, security forces killed 30 terrorists in an IBO in KP’s South Waziristan district, the ISPR said in a statement on Tuesday.

With at least 685 members of security forces losing their lives amid a total of 444 terror attacks, 2024 turned out to be the deadliest year for the civil and military security forces of Pakistan in a decade, according to a 2024 report issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies think-tank.

According to the ISPR Director General, security forces conducted a total of 59,775 operations last year during which 925 terrorists were killed and 383 officers and soldiers were martyred.

Source: DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Bury this curse forever": PM Shehbaz vows to eradicate terrorism from country​

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has vowed to completely eradicate terrorism from Pakistan, stating that the nation will "bury this curse forever" and prevent its resurgence.

In a speech at an event in Islamabad on Saturday, he declared that the government would take decisive action to eliminate terrorism from the country.

Referring to the tragic suicide bombing in Akora Khattak, which led to the martyrdom of Maulana Hamidul Haq and several other Pakistanis, Prime Minister Sharif condemned the attack, calling it a deeply sorrowful incident.

He highlighted that the Jamia, where both Islamic and modern education is provided, produced true Pakistanis. While expressing the nation's grief over the attack, he urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to swiftly arrest the perpetrators and ensure they face justice.

The Prime Minister further reflected on Pakistan's progress in combating terrorism, stating that by 2018, the country had largely eradicated terrorism, with over 80,000 Pakistanis having laid down their lives for peace and acknowledged the sacrifices made by the armed forces, police, and law enforcement agencies.

However, he noted that terrorism had resurfaced, though he chose not to delve into the causes at that moment. He reiterated that the armed forces would play a pivotal role in eradicating this menace, ensuring that it is completely and permanently eliminated.

On the financial front, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the pending revenue collection of billions of rupees owed to the state of Pakistan as he mentioned that in 2022 and 2023, when the dollar soared, banks had made windfall profits, and the government had imposed a windfall tax on them. Despite this, the banks had obtained a stay order.

However, he praised the efforts of the Governor of the State Bank, who, after the Sindh High Court lifted the stay order, managed to withdraw Rs23 billion from the banks and deposit it into the national treasury.

Announcement of Rs20 Billion Ramadan Package

In his speech, Prime Minister Sharif also announced a substantial Rs20 billion Ramadan package for the poor, aimed at providing relief during the holy month.

He explained that this year, the government had allocated Rs20 billion, benefiting 4 million families across Pakistan. The package marks a nearly 200% increase from last year's allocation of Rs7 billion.

The Premier emphasized that the Ramadan package would be implemented across the entire country, ensuring that deserving families from Karachi to Gilgit, including those in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, are included.

He commended the efforts of institutions like the State Bank, NADRA, and technology organizations for ensuring transparency and efficiency in the distribution process. He also expressed gratitude to all the institutions involved in delivering the Ramadan relief to those in need.

Prime Minister Sharif further stated that the government was working to improve and privatize the utility stores system, which had previously been plagued by corruption. This year, beneficiaries of the Ramadan package would no longer have to wait in long lines. Instead, they would receive relief in a dignified manner through digital wallets.\

He assured that the distribution of the Ramadan package would be closely monitored to ensure transparency and fairness.

Bury this curse forever: PM Shehbaz vows to eradicate terrorism from Pakistan | The Express Tribune

PM declared that the government would take decisive action to eliminate terrorism from the country.

tribune.com.pk

 

[FearlessRoar]

Civilian deaths from terrorism surged in February: report

February saw a marginal increase in terrorist attacks but a sharp surge in civilian casualties, according to a report published by the Islamabad-based think tank, Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS).

The report — shared with Dawn.com by PICSS Media Coordinator Sifwan Abdullah — was published after a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a military convoy in North Waziristan earlier today, martyring two soldiers and injuring 10 others.

According to PICSS, the country witnessed 79 terrorist attacks last month, resulting in the deaths of 55 civilians and 47 security personnel, while 45 civilians and 81 security personnel were injured.

Security forces, meanwhile, intensified counter-terrorism operations, eliminating 156 terrorists, injuring 20, and arresting 66, it said.

“February 2025 marked the first month since August 2024 in which civilian fatalities surpassed those of security forces. Civilian deaths rose by 175 per cent compared to January 2025, when 20 civilians were killed, while security forces’ casualties declined by 18pc, down from 57 in January,” the report said.

The report stated that terrorist fatalities also dropped by 25pc, with 208 killed in January compared to 156 in February. A significant increase in arrests was recorded in February, with 66 suspects detained — the highest monthly figure since December 2023, when 139 terrorists were apprehended.

Per the report, 50 of these arrests occurred in the merged districts (erstwhile Fata region) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while 16 were made in Punjab.

According to PICSS, Balochistan remained the most volatile province, recording 32 attacks that claimed 56 lives, including 35 civilians, 10 security personnel, and 11 militants.

The attacks also left 44 people injured, including 32 security forces personnel and 12 civilians. Terrorists also abducted two individuals during the month, the report said.

The Bashir Zeb and Azad factions of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) and the United Baloch Army (UBA) claimed responsibility for most of these attacks. Security forces, in response, killed 11 terrorists in Balochistan, per the report.

In the merged districts, 21 terrorist attacks were reported, leading to the deaths of 22 security personnel and eight civilians. Per the report, 26 security forces personnel and 11 civilians were injured. Security forces killed at least 98 terrorists, injured 15, and arrested 50 suspects in the region.

Most of the attacks were claimed by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), while Lashkar-e-Islam and factions of the Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group also claimed responsibility for several attacks.

Meanwhile, in the rest of KP, 23 terrorist attacks were recorded, resulting in the deaths of 14 security personnel and 12 civilians, while 22 civilians and an equal number of security personnel were injured. Security forces killed 47 terrorists in the province, the report said.

Sindh witnessed three minor terrorist attacks, resulting in the death of one security official and injury to another. One attack was claimed by the Sindhu Desh Revolutionary Army and one by the Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group.

The Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group claimed their first-ever attack outside KP when a policeman was shot dead in Karachi’s Manghopir area on February 15.

No terrorist attacks were reported in Punjab, but security forces arrested 16 suspects from various locations, PICSS reported. Likewise, no incidents of terrorism were reported in Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir or Islamabad.

Civilian deaths from terrorism surged in February: report

Think tank PICSS reports 79 terrorist attacks last month; says 55 civilians and 47 security personnel martyred.

www.dawn.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

4 terrorists arrested near Pak-Afghan border in Balochistan: state media

Four terrorists were arrested during a successful operation by security forces near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in the Toba Kakri area in Balochistan, state-run Radio Pakistan reported on Thursday.

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities over the past year, especially in KP and Balochistan, after the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

Islamabad has consistently voiced concerns that the banned TTP uses Afghan soil to launch attacks in Pakistan, asking the Afghan interim government to rein in the group. Kabul denies the allegations.

Citing security sources, Radio Pakistan today said weapons — including Kalashnikovs, hand grenades and other firearms — were recovered from the arrested terrorists.

The arrested terrorists confessed to planning a major terrorist attack, the report added. It quoted one of those held as admitting that they had “entered Pakistan three days ago from Afghanistan”.

The local population played a significant role in the success of this operation against the terrorists, Radio Pakistan quoted security sources as saying.

It added that “defence experts described it [as] a positive development that the local population is fighting alongside security forces against the terrorists”.

The defence experts were quoted as saying that the “primary reason for the rise in terrorism in Pakistan are the terrorist organisations flourishing on Afghan soil”.

“They said Afghanistan has become a haven for terrorists and immediate international action is needed,” Radio Pakistan stated.

The arrest comes a day after a remotely detonated blast in Balochistan’s Khuzdar district killed five people and critically wounded 10 others. According to police, the blast targeted the vehicle of pro-government tribal elder Abdul Samad Samalani.

Earlier this week, an attack on the Bannu Cantonment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s namesake district left five soldiers martyred as 16 terrorists were killed in the response. Due to the destruction caused by the blasts, 13 civilians, including six children, lost their lives, while another 32 were injured.

Rise in terrorism

Pakistan ranked second in the Global Terrorism Index 2025, with the number of deaths in terrorist attacks rising by 45 per cent over the past year to 1,081.

February saw a marginal increase in terrorist attacks but a sharp surge in civilian casualties, according to a report published by an Islamabad-based think tank, the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (Piccs).

According to Piccs, the country witnessed 79 terrorist attacks last month, resulting in the deaths of 55 civilians and 47 security personnel, while 45 civilians and 81 security personnel were injured. Security forces, meanwhile, intensified counter-terrorism operations, eliminating 156 terrorists, injuring 20, and arresting 66, the report said.

It further said that Balochistan remained the most volatile province, recording 32 attacks that claimed 56 lives — including 35 civilians, 10 security personnel, and 11 militants.

DAWN NEWS

 

[BouncerGuy]

Two security personnel martyred in Bajaur blast

Two security personnel were martyred and two others injured when their vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb in a hilly area of Salarzai tehsil here on Friday evening.

Sources told Dawn that the incident occurred in Bar Malasaid locality at around 6pm just before Iftar.

The security personnel were passing from the area when the bomb, said to be an improvised explosive device, exploded near the vehicle, the sources added, saying that two soldiers were martyred on the spot and two others wounded.

The injured were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital.

The sources said the blast badly damaged the vehicle.

Soon after the explosion, a team of security personnel along with police launched a search operation in the locality to trace those involved in the attack.

No one has claimed responsibility for the blast.

Inter-Services Public Relations, the army’s media wing, was yet to release a statement about the incident till filing of this report on Friday night.

DAWN NEWS

 

[The Bald Eagle]

PM Shehbaz calls for joint efforts to end terrorism in Balochistan, K-P​

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan cannot achieve progress unless terrorism is eradicated from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and Balochistan. Chairing a meeting on the security situation in Balochistan on Thursday, the prime minister was briefed by Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti.

Referring to the recent attack on a passenger train, PM Shehbaz condemned the assailants for disregarding the sanctity of Ramadan. "Defenceless passengers were taken hostage in the wilderness. Under the leadership of the army chief, security forces successfully rescued 339 passengers," he said.

He expressed gratitude on behalf of the public and the government to the Special Services Group’s (SSG) Zarrar Company, saying it was specifically created to counter such terrorist threats.

PM Shehbaz stressed that the entire nation was grieving the attack on the Jaffer Express. "Pakistan cannot afford another such tragedy. Everyone must play their role in ensuring security. Balochistan’s progress is essential for Pakistan’s overall development," he added.

Questioning the resurgence of terrorism, PM said, "Terrorism had been crushed before—so why has it resurfaced? Unfortunately, some people’s remarks on this incident were so inappropriate that they cannot even be repeated."

He criticised what he called the "enemy’s propaganda," stating, "It is disappointing how our eastern neighbour promoted the narrative of Pakistan’s adversaries."

The prime minister also condemned the release of certain militants in the past. "Some Taliban members with dark histories were freed. Poison is being spewed against the state and the army. There is no greater act of hostility than defaming our military," he said.

He praised the armed forces for their sacrifices, particularly in Balochistan and K-P, adding that their efforts had prevented thousands of children from being orphaned.

PM Shehbaz warned against the actions of "infiltrators and enemies disguised as friends" who, he said, were harming Pakistan. "If we do not eliminate terrorism, our journey towards development will be derailed," he asserted.


The PM also announced plans for an All Parties Conference (APC) to discuss Balochistan’s challenges. "Terrorists will use every tactic to create division among the people. At this time, national unity is the need of the hour," he emphasised.

"I have not come to Balochistan for political point-scoring," he said. "Even now, we must learn from the past and move forward. The political leadership of the entire country should come together to discuss the challenges Pakistan is facing," he added.

Source: The Express Tribune

 

[BouncerGuy]

JUI district chief, 3 others injured in IED blast at South Waziristan mosque: police

A bomb exploded at a mosque in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s South Waziristan during Friday prayers, injuring JUI district chief Abdullah Nadeem and three others, police said.

District Police Officer Asif Bahader told Dawn.com that an improvised explosive device (IED) blast occurred at 1:45 pm at Maulana Abdul Aziz Mosque on Azam Warsak Bypass Road, with the device planted in the mosque’s pulpit.

“In the explosion, Abdullah Nadeem, the district chief of JUI, was seriously wounded,” he said. “Three others, also belonging to the JUI, have sustained minor injuries.”

The injured were identified as Rehmanullah, Mullah Noor, and Shah Behran, a statement issued by the police said.

DPO Bahader added that all injured individuals had been taken to the District Headquarters Hospital for immediate medical assistance.

“The police have also reached the site of the blast and are collecting evidence,” he said. “Further investigation is underway.”

Mosques, particularly during Friday prayers when large congregations gather, have been targeted in KP in the past as well.

District Police Spokesman Habib Islam told Dawn.com that no group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.

“Maulana Abdullah had been receiving death threats for quite some time,” he said. “He was also attacked about seven or eight months ago.”

Last month, six people, including JUI-S leader Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani, were killed and 15 injured when a suicide blast ripped through the Darul Uloom Haqqania seminary in KP’s Nowshera district.

On January 30, 2023, a blast inside a mosque shook Peshawar’s Police Lines area, with officials saying that at least 59 people were killed and 157 were injured.

The explosion ripped through the mosque in Peshawar’s Red Zone area where between 300 and 400 people — mostly police officers — had gathered for prayers. The suicide blast blew away the wall of the prayer hall and an inner roof.

This toll rose to 101 two days later, the KP health department said in a statement.

In 2022, a powerful suicide blast ripped through the crowded Jamia Masjid Koocha Risaldar in the old city. The bomber first killed the policeman deployed at the imambargah’s main gate and then entered the premises to blow himself up inside the main hall, where a large number of worshippers were offering Friday prayers.

DAWN NEWS

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Terror bid foiled, suicide bomber arrested in Lahore

The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) on Friday foiled a major terror bid and arrested a suicide bomber of a banned outfit in Lahore, Dunya News reported.

According to details, the CTD carried out an intelligence-based operation near Barki Road and arrested a suicide bomber after heavy exchange of fire. Another terrorist managed to escape from the scene.

A CTD spokesperson informed that, suicide vest, safety fuss wire and explosives were also recovered from the arrested terrorists.

He added that the operation successfully foiled a potential terror plot that could have posed a significant threat to the security of the city. The prompt action by the CTD and intelligence agencies prevented a major incident, he noted.

Terror bid foiled, suicide bomber arrested in Lahore

Suicide vest, safety fuss wire and explosives were also recovered from the arrested terrorists.

dunyanews.tv

 

[hassan918]

Terrorist attacks on police, FC installations repulsed in KP​

PESHAWAR (Dunya News) – Terrorist attacks on three police stations or posts in different cities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were successfully thwarted due to timely action by the security personnel.

A group of 10 to 15 terrorists attempted to attack the Gambila police station in Lakki Marwat, where a befitting retaliatory response forced them to flee the scene.

DPO Jawad Ishaq said a major attack was foiled by taking timely action, adding that the terrorists managed to escape using heavy weapons.

A group of militants attacked a police post in Malazai area of Peshawar with a hand grenade while another attack was carried out in Khyber, where terrorists opened fired on police post near Bypass Road.

Two policemen suffer bullet wounds in the attack while the terrorists managed to flee despite getting injured in retaliatory firing. The injured policemen have been shifted to hospital for treatment.

Terrorists also targeted an FC checkpost in Jamrud but they ran away after security personnel gave quick response.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has praised the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police for successfully thwarting attacks on three police stations by terrorists.

He stated that the brave officers of the KP Police courageously confronted the terrorists and foiled their malicious intentions.

In his statement, the interior minister said that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police is playing the role of vanguard in the fight against terrorism and has always faced the enemy with valor. He saluted the brave police personnel and reaffirmed that the nation will work together to defeat the evil plans of Khawarji terrorists.

SURGE IN TERRORISM

A day earlier (Sunday), five people, including three Frontier Corps (FC) personnel, lost their lives when an FC convoy was attacked by the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) on a highway in Balochistan’s Noshki district on Sunday, said ISPR.

According to the military’s media wing, terrorists carried out an explosion and a suicide attack on an FC convoy early in the morning on Dalbandin Road in Noshki, Balochistan. The cowardly suicide attack claimed the lives of three FC personnel and two civilians.

The personnel martyred in the Noshki suicide attack were 38-year-old Havaldar Manzoor Ali from District Nawabshah, 39-year-old Havaldar Ali Bilawal from District Naseerabad, 34-year-old Naik Abdul Rahim from District Badin, civilian driver Jalaluddin from Quetta, and civilian driver Muhammad Naeem from District Kharan.

The ISPR stated that security forces launched an immediate and effective retaliatory operation, killing four terrorists including the suicide bomber.

Source: Dunya News

 

[BouncerGuy]

PTI says it won’t back military operation in KP without public consent

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf central secretary information Sheikh Waqas Akram said here on Monday that his party and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government were not in favour of launching any military operation in the province without the consent of the people.

“The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and PTI as a party have been very clear on it that they will not own any military operation if launched without public support,” he said while responding to a question during a press conference.

Clarifying his party and its provincial government stance, Mr Akram said that if situation had deteriorated to an extent that needed military operation then the matter should be brought to parliament and discussed in detail on the floor of assembly.

There should be open discussion on the military operation, he said. He said that any military operation having support of people had fruitful results and good impact.

“We think if any such step (operation) has been planned by the authorities at the helm of affairs then it should be discussed with public representatives,” he added.

Regarding their proposed protest after Eidul Fitr, he said that they were in consultation with all the opposition parties for shaping up a grand opposition alliance. He said that their efforts in that connection were clear to all.

The PTI delegation has recently met with Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl, Jamaat-i-Islami and Grand Democratic Alliance with the sole agenda to unite all the opposition parties for launching the protest movement.

“If all the opposition voices in the country get united against the ‘fascism’ then it would be more fruitful,” said Mr Akram. He said that if the opposition parties didn’t unite for their protest then PTI had the right to launch a peaceful protest.

About PTI’s meetings with JUI-F for joint the protest, he said that positive developments had been observed in such meetings and talks were in right direction.

In such meetings, he said, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazl Rehman showed some concerns, which could be addressed.

He said that a ban was imposed on meetings with PTI incarcerated leader Imran Khan, so when they met with him such concerns would definitely be addressed with his directions.

Mr Akram came down hard on ‘institutions’ for raiding the homes of PTI activists and social media team members. He said that Hadir Saeed, who was not official member of PTI social media team rather a volunteer, was picked up by law enforcement agencies during a raid on his home.

He said that Mr Saeed had been in custody for the last few days and had not been produced before any court of law. He said that parents of Mr Saeed were perturbed as they visited many police stations to see their son, but in vain.

He said that other members of PTI social media team including Qadeer Amjid, Saeed Tariq, Farhan Chushti and Usman had also been picked up. “They are in the custody of law enforcement agencies,” he claimed.

DAWN NEWS

 

[The Bald Eagle]

2 killed, 17 injured in Quetta blast

A bomb blast near a police van in Quetta’s Double Road area killed atleast two people and injured 17 people of which it included four police officers, according to local authorities.

Police said the explosion caused damage to the police vehicle as well as nearby cars and motorcycles. Rescue teams quickly arrived at the scene and transported the injured to a local hospital.

A spokesperson for the Balochistan government confirmed that security forces had cordoned off the area and that an investigation was underway. No fatalities were immediately reported.

No group has claimed responsibility for the incident so far.

Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, has frequently seen attacks targeting security forces amid a broader insurgency in the region.

Source: The Express Tribune

 

[Aang_The_last_airbender]

PTI says it won’t back military operation in KP without public consent

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf central secretary information Sheikh Waqas Akram said here on Monday that his party and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government were not in favour of launching any military operation in the province without the consent of the people.

“The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and PTI as a party have been very clear on it that they will not own any military operation if launched without public support,” he said while responding to a question during a press conference.

Clarifying his party and its provincial government stance, Mr Akram said that if situation had deteriorated to an extent that needed military operation then the matter should be brought to parliament and discussed in detail on the floor of assembly.

There should be open discussion on the military operation, he said. He said that any military operation having support of people had fruitful results and good impact.

“We think if any such step (operation) has been planned by the authorities at the helm of affairs then it should be discussed with public representatives,” he added.

Regarding their proposed protest after Eidul Fitr, he said that they were in consultation with all the opposition parties for shaping up a grand opposition alliance. He said that their efforts in that connection were clear to all.

The PTI delegation has recently met with Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl, Jamaat-i-Islami and Grand Democratic Alliance with the sole agenda to unite all the opposition parties for launching the protest movement.

“If all the opposition voices in the country get united against the ‘fascism’ then it would be more fruitful,” said Mr Akram. He said that if the opposition parties didn’t unite for their protest then PTI had the right to launch a peaceful protest.

About PTI’s meetings with JUI-F for joint the protest, he said that positive developments had been observed in such meetings and talks were in right direction.

In such meetings, he said, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazl Rehman showed some concerns, which could be addressed.

He said that a ban was imposed on meetings with PTI incarcerated leader Imran Khan, so when they met with him such concerns would definitely be addressed with his directions.

Mr Akram came down hard on ‘institutions’ for raiding the homes of PTI activists and social media team members. He said that Hadir Saeed, who was not official member of PTI social media team rather a volunteer, was picked up by law enforcement agencies during a raid on his home.

He said that Mr Saeed had been in custody for the last few days and had not been produced before any court of law. He said that parents of Mr Saeed were perturbed as they visited many police stations to see their son, but in vain.

He said that other members of PTI social media team including Qadeer Amjid, Saeed Tariq, Farhan Chushti and Usman had also been picked up. “They are in the custody of law enforcement agencies,” he claimed.

DAWN NEWS

Why isnt a similar demand for Balochs?
Not enough votes to grab power I guess.

 

[Local.Dada]

Why isnt a similar demand for Balochs?
Not enough votes to grab power I guess.

Imran Khan called it emotional blackmailing when Baloch people were protesting for missing persons and wanted to have a talk with him when he was PM.

Make whatever of that.

 

[hassan918]

3 terrorists killed as Punjab Police repel attack on DG Khan checkpoint​

The Punjab Police on early Saturday morning were able to repel a terrorist attack on a checkpoint in Dera Ghazi Khan, killing three terrorists and injuring “a large number” of them, the force said in a statement.

Police forces across Pakistan have fallen prey to numerous attacks by terrorists and criminals.

According to social media posts by the Punjab police today, 20-25 terrorists attacked the Lakhani checkpoint in DG Khan, which lies along the border with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

“[Police personnel] defended the check post with courage and bravery … all personnel were safe,” one of the posts read. “Under the supervision of Regional Police Officer Dera Ghazi Khan Captain (retired) Sajjad Hassan Khan, police teams led by District Police Officer Syed Ali took immediate action.”

The police said that one terrorist was killed during the attack while “several” were injured, later adding that two others were eliminated during a search operation launched in the area.

“[The] Punjab Police, CTD [and] other agencies cordoned off the area this morning and conducted a search operation,” the police said in a Facebook post. “During the search operation, the other two terrorists were found from different places, traces of blood were also found at different places on the escape routes.

“The terrorists fled after leaving their shoes and other belongings behind in a vigorous counter-attack,” the post added.

Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr Usman Anwar was quoted as saying that the provincial police were “a wall of lead against the enemies of national security and kharji [outcast] terrorists”.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi commended the Punjab police for their response to the attack in a press release, highlighting that they repelled the attack in a “highly professional manner”.

“We pay tribute to the police team for foiling the attack by the terrorists of Fitna al Khawarij,” Naqvi was quoted as saying, using the term designating members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan.

“The Punjab police responded to the attack in an extremely professional manner, delivering a decisive blow to the terrorists and defeating their nefarious designs,” he added. “We take pride in the brave and professional personnel of the Punjab police.”

Earlier this month, Punjab police, along with the Counter-Terrorism Department and Rangers, thwarted two attacks by terrorists in the border areas of DG Khan.

The terrorists were forced to retreat and flee into the mountains after an intense exchange of fire with law enforcement agencies.

The operation was launched after intelligence reports about the presence of terrorists in the border area of Murha. Police said that the terrorists, armed with heavy weapons, attacked police teams but were met with a strong and timely response.

In a separate incident, another group of terrorists launched a surprise attack on the Lakhani border checkpoint in the vicinity of the Wahowa police station.

Source: DAWN

 

[BouncerGuy]

Six terrorists killed in Kalat operation: ISPR

Six terrorists were killed by security forces in an operation in Kalat district on Saturday, the military’s media wing said in a statement.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was conducted based on intelligence reports about the presence of terrorists in the area.

Security forces “effectively engaged” the terrorists’ hideout, and after an intense exchange of fire, six terrorists were “successfully neutralised”.

The ISPR claimed that the deceased terrorists were involved in attacks against law enforcement agencies and civilians.

A sanitisation operation is being conducted to eliminate any other terrorists, the statement added.

DAWN NEWS

 

[SpiritOf1903]

It needs to strip citizenship of anyone wanting to work in India or join Indian companies

 

[Aang_The_last_airbender]

It needs to strip citizenship of anyone wanting to work in India or join Indian companies

Entire Pakistan media industry and cricketers

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Entire Pakistan media industry and cricketers

Mercenarys out

 

[BouncerGuy]

‘Militant attacks in March surged to highest level since 2014’

Militant violence and security operations intensified in the country in March 2025, with the number of militant attacks surpassing 100 for the first time since November 2014, according to a data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS).

The think tank reported 105 militant attacks during the month, resulting in 228 fatalities, including 73 security personnel, 67 civilians, and 88 militants. Additionally, 258 people were injured, comprising 129 security personnel and an equal number of civilians.

Security forces also conducted intensified counter-militancy operations, resulting in the deaths of 107 individuals, including 83 militants, 13 security personnel, and 11 civilians, while 31 others were injured, among them nine security personnel and four militants.

In total, militant attacks and security operations accounted for 335 deaths, with 86 security personnel, 78 civilians, and 171 militants among the deceased.

According to the Militancy Database (MD), March 2025 recorded the highest overall fatalities since August 2015. The month also saw the highest number of security forces casualties since January 2023, when 114 personnel lost their lives. It was the second deadliest month for security forces of the country in the past decade, following January 2023.

Surge in suicide attacks

It recorded six suicide bombings in March, the highest in a single month in recent years. These attacks resulted in 59 fatalities, including 15 civilians, 11 security personnel, and 33 militants, while 94 others were injured including 56 security personnel and 38 civilians. Three of these attacks occurred in Balochistan, two in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and one in the erstwhile Fata, now part of KP’s tribal districts.

Most-affected provinces

Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained the most affected provinces. One of the most notable incidents was the hijacking of the Jaffar Express by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) Bashir Zeb group on March 11, resulting in the deaths of at least 26 hostages and 33 militants. The province also witnessed three suicide attacks, one vehicle-borne bombing. A female suicide bomber, reportedly from the BLA Herbyar Marri faction (BLA-Azad), carried out one attack, while another was claimed by the BLA Bashir Zeb faction. A suspected suicide bombing targeting a BNP-Mengal rally remained unclaimed.

Overall, Balochistan saw at least 122 fatalities in insurgent attacks and security operations, including 40 civilians, 37 security personnel and 45 militants. Additionally, 148 people suffered injuries, 79 civilians and 69 security personnel. Security forces arrested at least eight suspected militants, while militants reportedly kidnapped 11 people.

In KP, at least 206 people were killed, including 49 security personnel, 34 civilians, and 123 militants, while 115 were injured, among them 63 security personnel and 49 civilians. Within the province, mainland KP recorded 124 fatalities 32 civilians, 30 security personnel, and 62 militants while 65 people were injured. The tribal districts, formerly Fata, saw 82 deaths, including 19 security personnel, two civilians, and 61 militants. A noticeable intensification of security operations was recorded, with 123 militants killed in KP during the month.

Arrests in Punjab

A significant increase in militant activity was observed in Punjab, where at least seven attacks, mostly attributed to Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), were recorded. According to the data, this marks the highest number of militant incidents in a single month in Punjab over the past decade. Six of these attacks occurred in Dera Ghazi Khan, where the TTP has been attempting to expand its presence along the KP border. The province reported six fatalities, three civilians and three militants.

In response to the growing threat of militancy, security forces intensified their operations in Punjab. The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) arrested at least 22 individuals linked to various militant groups, including TTP. All of these arrests took place in Lahore.

Sindh experienced three low-intensity attacks in March, resulting in one civilian fatality and injuries to seven individuals, including six security personnel. One attack, claimed by the militant Islamic State (Daesh), targeted a Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader, while the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) claimed responsibility for an assault on a police station.

No militant attacks were reported in Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, or Azad Jammu and Kashmir. However, security forces arrested a TTP militant in Azad Kashmir, recovering weapons and ammunition.

DAWN NEWS

 

[Aang_The_last_airbender]

Military operations against foreigners is one thing but adopting a hard military stance against your own citizens has never worked. You cant be committing a genocide against your own people. There has to be a diplomatic balanced approach to allow peace to fester.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Key target among two terrorists neutralised in Lower Dir: ISPR

Security forces killed two terrorists, including a “high-value target”, during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Timergara area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Lower Dir, the military’s media wing said on Friday.

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities over the past year, especially in KP and Balochistan, after the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security personnel carried out the IBO on the night of April 10-11 on the reported presence of khwarij.

Fitna Al Khawarij is a term the state uses to refer to the banned TTP.

The statement said: “During the conduct of operation, [our] own troops surrounded and effectively engaged the khwarij location, and after intense fire exchange, two khwarij including a high value target Kharji Hafeezullah [alias] Kochwan were sent to hell.”

It added that Kharji Hafeezullah was “involved in numerous terrorist activities against the security forces as well as the innocent civilians”.

He was highly wanted by law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and the government had fixed head money of Rs10 million on him, the ISPR said.

The statement further read that a “sanitisation operation” was being conducted to eliminate any other terrorists in the area, adding, “[The] security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country.”

On Monday, security forces killed nine terrorists, including the ring leader, during an IBO in the Takwara area of KP’s Dera Ismail Khan district.

A day prior to that, security forces killed eight terrorists and injured another four as they thwarted an infiltration attempt on the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in KP’s North Waziristan district.

Last month, the government had ruled out a fresh military operation amid a surge in terrorist attacks, especially in KP and Balochistan.

Militant violence and security operations intensified in the country in March, with the number of militant attacks surpassing 100 for the first time since November 2014, according to data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (Picss).

In KP, at least 206 people were killed — including 49 security personnel, 34 civilians, and 123 militants — while 115 were injured, with 63 security personnel and 49 civilians among them, the Picss report said.

DAWN NEWS

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Some Serie A

 

[BouncerGuy]

3 cops martyred, 16 injured as Balochistan Constabulary targeted in Mastung IED blast

Three policemen were martyred and at least 16 others were injured on Tuesday morning as a blast targeted a vehicle of the Balochistan Constabulary in the Mastung district, officials said.

The Balochistan Constabulary is part of the provincial police, according to the latter’s website.

Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind, in a statement, said that a vehicle carrying policemen from Kalat was targeted with an improvised explosive device (IED).

“Three jawaan (personnel) of the Balochistan Constabulary were martyred in the blast,” Rind stated.

He added that 16 others were injured due to the explosion, out of whom two were in a serious condition.

However, Mastung Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Younas Magsi put the number of those injured at 18.

All wounded cops have been shifted to a hospital while those seriously injured were being taken to Quetta, about 50 kilometres away from Mastung, according to Rind.

He added that an investigation report on the incident has been sought.

The Balochistan Constabulary officials were deployed at a sit-in by the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), the spokesperson said.

The BNP-M’s sit-in at Mastung against the arrests of Baloch activists entered its 19th day today. Just on the second day of their protest, BNP-M chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal and others had remained unhurt after a suicide blast near their rally.

DAWN NEWS

 

[BouncerGuy]

Security forces torch bunkers of terrorists in Tirah valley

Security forces on Tuesday evacuated local families from Durbar locality of Tirah valley and later torched bunkers after completion of a limited military operation in the area a day before.

The residents of Durbar village of Zakhakhel told Dawn that forces first ordered them to vacate their houses prior to an intelligence-based operation (IBO) on Sunday on suspicion of the presence of terrorists in the area.

They said that scores of local families were shifted to nearby localities, with the majority of them opting to temporarily shift to houses of their relatives in other villages while allowing security forces to comb their houses for possible presence of terrorists.

The ‘displaced’ families were then allowed to go back to their houses on Monday while security forces went back after completing the operation with no collateral damage.

The temporary ‘internal displacement’ was agreed between the elders of various tribes of Tirah and security officials on April 9 during a detailed meeting over the prevailing situation in the valley and finding a solution to reservations of locals about their lengthy and long-distance displacement from their homes while the forces conducting an intelligence-based operation in any part of the valley.

Local elders agreed to temporary internal displacement after the experiment was first conducted in Zakhakhel and Malakdinkhel areas on a limited basis.

Locals said that security forces on Tuesday first vacated at least four to five bunkers established on hilltops in Durbar locality while taking their help in ‘bringing down’ their belongings and weaponry from the vacated bunkers and later putting the bunkers on fire. They said that forces went back from their village after burning the bunkers.

Sources said that forces also targeted militant positions in other localities of Zakhakhel with ‘drones’ while armed militant groups were still making their appearances in different parts of the region.

They said that security forces stationed in former Zakhakhel peace committee commander Prraq palatial residence used the fortified facility to target militant positions through drones.

DAWN NEWS

 

[BouncerGuy]

Four terrorists killed in Dera operation

Security forces killed four terrorists affiliated with a banned group during an intelligence-based operation in the Kulachi tehsil of Dera Ismail Khan on Wednesday, sources said, adding two other militants were reportedly injured.

They said a significant cache of sophisticated weapons and explosive material was also recovered from the possession of the killed and injured militants.

The neutralised militants were said to be involved in multiple acts of terrorism, including targeted killing, extortion, kidnappings, and abductions for ransom. They had long been wanted by law enforcement and security agencies.

Meanwhile, a policeman was injured in a clash with terrorists in the remote Paharkhel Pacca area of Lakki Marwat district on Wednesday.

An official said a group of terrorists ambushed a party of Ghaznikhel police station led by SHO Ghulan Razzaq Khan when it was on a routine patrol duty in the area.

“It was a three-pronged attack wherein the assailants used light and heavy weapons,” he said, adding the police van was badly damaged in the sudden attack.

The official said the cops took positions and returned the attack, triggering a gun battle.

“A cop, identified as Shahid, was injured in an exchange of fire and transported to a hospital,” he added.

He said during an exchange of fire, the law enforcers shifted their injured colleague to a safer place and continued fighting bravely.

He said an effective retaliation by police backed by armed villagers forced the terrorists to flee toward mountains.

The official further said additional force from the police lines and nearby police stations led by district police officer Mohammad Jawad Ishaq also reached the area and launched a search in the difficult mountainous terrain for assailants.

DAWN NEWS

 

[BouncerGuy]

5 ‘terrorists’ killed in joint operation in Balochistan’s Duki: CTD

The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) said on Saturday that five terrorists were killed during its joint operation conducted with other law enforcement agencies in Balochistan’s Duki district.

Faced with increasing attacks by militants, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, security forces have also intensified counterterrorism operations.

“Five terrorists were killed during the action,” the CTD said in a statement, noting that the joint operation was conducted in Duki’s Dhabar Pahari area.

It added that they belonged to a “banned organisation” and were involved in “attacks on coal mines, [security] forces, and citizens”.

The CTD statement further said the slain terrorists’ bodies were shifted to the Duki Civil Hospital.

Hailing the counterterrorism action by the “CTD, FC [Frontier Constabulary] and other LEAs”, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti expressed his satisfaction over the operation.

“State institutions are fully active against terrorism,” he said in a statement, pledging that “every conspiracy to destabilise Balochistan will be thwarted”.

CM Bugti said the provincial government was taking “every possible action” to protect people’s lives and property. “Indiscriminate action will also be taken against those facilitating the terrorists,” he added.

“Anti-peace elements will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” the chief minister asserted, vowing that the province’s “journey towards peace and development” would continue.

The CTD operation comes days after Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir vowed to remove “whatever stands in the way of Pakistan’s progress” and reaffirmed the state’s determination to counter terrorism.

“Do Pakistan’s enemies think that a handful of terrorists can decide the fate of Pakistan?” he said, adding that “even ten generations of terrorists cannot harm Balochistan and Pakistan”.

In the most recent major attack, at least three policemen were martyred and 20 others were injured on Tuesday morning as a blast targeted a vehicle of the Balochistan Constabulary in Balochistan’s Mastung district.

Militant violence and security operations intensified in the country in March, with the number of militant attacks surpassing 100 for the first time since November 2014, according to a report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (Picss).

Pakistan ranked second in the Global Terrorism Index 2025, with the number of deaths in terrorist attacks rising by 45 per cent over the past year to 1,081.

DAWN NEWS