RAWALPINDI: In a significant counter-terrorism success, Pakistani security forces thwarted a major infiltration attempt by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, killing 54 terrorists in a "precise and skilful" operation in North Waziristan, the military confirmed on Sunday.
According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), this was the highest number of terrorists eliminated in a single engagement since the beginning of Pakistan's counter-terrorism operations.
The militants were reportedly attempting to enter Pakistan under the guidance of their “foreign masters” to execute high-profile terrorist attacks. Security forces, acting on timely intelligence, intercepted the infiltration near the Hassan Khel area during the nights of April 25-27.
"Own troops effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt to infiltrate. As a result of precise and skilful engagement, all 54 Khawarij were sent to hell," the ISPR said, using a term often employed to describe extremist militants. A large cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives was also recovered during the operation.
ISPR further stated that this infiltration attempt, coinciding with India’s recent propaganda efforts, raises questions about who is orchestrating the attacks. “Such actions amount to treason and betrayal against the state and its citizens,” the statement emphasized.
The National Security Committee (NSC), in a recent meeting, had highlighted India’s strategic intent to distract Pakistan’s security forces from their campaign against terror, giving room for terrorist outfits like the TTP to regroup.
“The Pakistan Armed Forces remain unwavering in their resolve to defend the nation and eliminate terrorism. These operations are a testament to Pakistan's ongoing success in the war against terror,” the military statement said.
In a separate development, security forces also killed Farid, the son of senior TTP leader Faqir Muhammad Bajauri, along with two of his bodyguards in Bajaur district. The terrorists were attempting to cross into Pakistan from Afghanistan’s Kunar province through Ghachi Pass.
Farid’s death is considered a major setback for the TTP, as he held a significant role in the group’s organisational structure and was being groomed for leadership by his father, a former deputy commander and head of the TTP’s political commission.
President Asif Zardari praised the security forces for their bravery and timely action. “Our brave security personnel are always ready to protect Pakistan’s borders. This successful operation is a major achievement in our war against terrorism,” he said in a statement.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the military’s swift response, stating, “The operation once again demonstrates the professional excellence of our forces. The entire nation stands united with our brave soldiers.”
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, addressing media in Lahore, applauded the forces' readiness and warned that any infiltration attempt would be met with a similarly strong response. He also cautioned that any misadventure by India would be countered with full force.
“The message is clear — Pakistan will defend every inch of its soil,” Naqvi declared.
