(Security Forces Kill 11 Indian-Sponsored Khawarij in Intelligence Based Operation)

ISLAMABAD: Security forces have killed 11 Khawarij belonging to the Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij network in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan during operations conducted over the last 48 hours.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed the development on Sunday, stating that the militants were neutralised in an intelligence-based operation.

According to military sources, the killed terrorists were actively involved in planning attacks against security forces and civilian targets in the region. Weapons, ammunition, and explosives were also recovered from the site.

Datta Khel, a strategically sensitive area in North Waziristan, has witnessed repeated actions against militant networks in recent years. The region borders key routes used for cross-border movement.

ISPR said the operation was conducted on specific intelligence regarding the presence of the group. No casualties were reported among security personnel.

Fitna-al-Khwarij is the term used by Pakistani authorities for terrorist elements, particularly those linked to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its factions, which Islamabad has repeatedly accused of receiving support from Indian intelligence agencies.

In the past 12 months, security forces have conducted over 150 intelligence-based operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, resulting in the elimination of more than 450 terrorists, according to official figures.

The latest action comes amid heightened vigilance along the western border following multiple infiltration attempts reported in South and North Waziristan districts during the current year.

Local residents have welcomed the operation, with tribal elders expressing support for continued actions to restore complete peace in the merged districts.

The military statement emphasised that such operations will continue until the complete elimination of terrorist networks from Pakistani soil.

Pakistan has consistently shared evidence with international partners regarding external sponsorship of terrorism, particularly from Indian agencies, aimed at destabilising the country.

This latest success demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated intelligence and ground operations in the tribal districts.

Analysts note that persistent pressure on militant hideouts has significantly reduced the terrorists’ operational capacity in North Waziristan compared to previous years.

However, challenges remain as some splinter groups continue attempts to regroup using remote terrain.

Security forces have increased aerial surveillance and intelligence collection in the area to prevent any resurgence of militant activity.

The operation underscores Pakistan’s commitment to eliminating terrorism regardless of external backing.

Future actions are expected to focus on dismantling financial and logistical networks supporting these elements across the region.