Eight terrorists killed during Bannu IBO: ISPR

Security forces killed eight terrorists during an intelligence operation in Bannu district on November 21, the army’s media wing said on Saturday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the joint operation of security forces and law enforcement agencies was launched after reports emerged of the presence of terrorists linked to the Indian-sponsored group Fitna Al Khawarij.

The ISPR said the troops approached the suspected hideout and came under fire. The security agents returned fire and after an intense exchange, eight terrorists were killed.

Arms and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who, the ISPR added, had been involved in multiple terrorist attacks on security forces, law enforcement agencies and targeted killings of civilians.

Army media noted that the operation reflects enhanced collaboration between security and law enforcement agencies, which have significantly stepped up their intelligence operations in the region. These coordinated measures aim to restrict the movements of Khawarij elements, dismantle their facilitation networks and curb their ability to reorganize.

Disinfection operations were underway to clear the area of ​​any remaining militants. The ISPR added that the ongoing anti-terrorism campaign under ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ – approved by the Supreme Federal Committee on National Action Plan – would continue with full determination to eliminate foreign-backed terrorism from the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a statement, praised security forces for what he described as a successful operation against Fitna al Khawarij in Bannu. He praised the professionalism and courage of the troops involved, noting the significant progress made under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam. “The entire nation stands with its armed forces in the war against terrorism,” he said.

President Asif Ali Zardari also congratulated the security forces and law enforcement agencies for the success of the joint intelligence operation. He praised the courage and determination of the personnel who eliminated eight terrorists who were operating with external support. Coordinated actions against these groups, he observed, strengthen national solidarity.

The President stressed that eliminating foreign-backed terrorist networks remains a top national priority and essential to ensuring long-term peace and stability in the country.