RAWALPINDI: Security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) Khyber district on Sunday, resulting in the elimination of a prominent figure, Surat Gul, also known as Saif Ullah, associated with Daesh.
Responding to reports of a significant terrorist presence, security forces swiftly launched a raid in the tribal district, as confirmed by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement.
A fierce exchange of fire ensued during the operation, leading to the neutralization of the leader of the outlawed terrorist group by security forces.
The ISPR stated, “The killed terrorist commander, who was actively involved in various terrorist activities including targeting innocent civilians and extortion, was also found in possession of weapons, ammunition, and explosives. He was a high-priority target for law enforcement agencies.”
“A sanitization operation is underway to root out any remaining terrorists in the area. Local residents have lauded the operation and pledged full support in eradicating the scourge of terrorism,” added the military’s media wing.
Earlier this month, security forces eliminated two terrorists, including a key figure, in KP’s North Waziristan district during an operation conducted on the nights of February 5 and 6.
The leader, Ayubullah, alias Mansoor, along with an accomplice, was killed in the operation based on intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists, as per a military statement.
Pakistan has witnessed a rise in attacks in its tribal districts bordering Afghanistan since the Taliban regained control in 2021.
Islamabad accuses Kabul of harboring militant groups such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), enabling them to launch attacks on Pakistani soil with impunity.
According to data released by the Department of Interior and Tribal Affairs KP, the areas most affected by terrorism include Peshawar, Khyber, Bajaur, and Tank, while Dera Ismail Khan, North Waziristan, and South Waziristan are also among the areas affected by terrorism.
Documents from the Home and Tribal areas indicate that a total of 1,050 incidents of terrorism occurred in KP last year, with 419 incidents in the arranged districts and 631 in the merged districts.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
