Eight terrorists killed during Bannu IBO: ISPR

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

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

The ISPR claimed that the troops approached the suspected hideout and were attacked. Security personnel 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 personnel and targeted killings of civilians.

The military’s media wing noted that the operation reflects strengthened collaboration between security forces and law enforcement agencies, which have significantly stepped up intelligence-driven operations across the region. These coordinated measures aim to restrict the movement of Khawarij elements, dismantle their facilitation networks and curb their ability to reorganize.

Disinfection operations were being carried out to clear the area of ​​remaining militants. The ISPR added that the ongoing anti-terrorism campaign under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” framework, approved by the Federal Apex 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, paid tribute to security forces for what he described as a successful operation against Fitna al Khawarij in Bannu. He praised the professionalism and bravery of the troops involved and highlighted the important progress being made under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam. “The entire nation supports its Armed Forces in the war against terrorism,” he said.

President Asif Ali Zardari also praised the security forces and law enforcement agencies for the successful joint intelligence operation. He saluted the courage and determination of the personnel who eliminated eight terrorists who were reported to be operating with external support. He noted that coordinated actions against these groups were strengthening national solidarity.

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