15 militants killed as security forces foil infiltration from Afghanistan

Security forces have foiled an attempt by Fitna Al Khawarij militants to infiltrate Pakistan from Afghanistan in North Waziristan, killing 15 militants, the military said on Thursday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the militants’ attempt to enter Pakistan from Afghanistan was successfully intercepted by security forces following a 36-hour operation. The military’s media wing said that at least 15 militants belonging to Fitna Al Khawarij were killed in the operation. A large quantity of weapons and ammunition was also recovered from the slain militants. The ISPR said a clearance operation was underway in the area to eliminate any remaining militants operating under the Indian patronage. It said the militants had been attempting to sabotage peace and stability in Pakistan, adding that the Afghan Taliban government has failed to prevent terrorist organisations from using Afghan territory for attacks against Pakistan. The ISPR said the Afghan Taliban government had also failed to ensure effective border management and fulfil its international obligations. The military reaffirmed that security forces remained determined to defend the country’s borders and said counterterrorism operations would continue under the Azm-e-Istehkam initiative to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised security forces for foiling the infiltration attempt and killing 15 militants near the Pak-Afghan border in North Waziristan. The prime minister paid tribute to the officers and personnel involved in the operation, saying they had demonstrated exceptional professionalism, patience and courage in thwarting the militants’ plans. He said counterterrorism operations under Azm-e-Istehkam would continue with full force and determination until terrorism was completely eliminated from the country.

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