In the aftermath of recent multiple terrorist incidents, Pakistan carried out an intelligence-based ground operation and airstrikes targeting militant safe havens in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including in the border region with Afghanistan, the Ministry of Information said on Monday.
"A well planned intelligence-based ground operation was carried out by security forces around Kohat, Hangu and Thal, followed by calibrated air strikes against the hideouts and safe havens of terrorists organisations responsible for these attacks," the ministry announced in a post on X.
The ministry said security forces conducted the IBO and targeted the safe havens of militant organisations responsible for a spate of attacks across KP, which had resulted in the martyrdom of civilians and security personnel.
The ground operation against a group of militants was conducted on September 20 in Kohat and Hangu districts, resulting in the killing of nine militants and injuries to several others, it added.
"Moreover, based on credible intelligence, selective targeting of terrorist camps and hideouts belonging to Fitna al khwarij and its affiliates has also been carried out in the border region with Afghanistan with precision and accuracy," the ministry said.
It added that three targets were destroyed, including a suicide bomber training centre, killing 28 militants, along with several suicide bombers.
Large cache of weapons and ammunition stored at these centres and hideouts were also destroyed.
The ministry reiterated Pakistan's resolve to always strive for the maintenance of peace and stability in the region.
However, it said that the safety and security of Pakistani citizens remained the government's foremost priority.
"It is a matter of grave concern that Afghanistan continues to remain a hub of terrorism," the ministry said, adding that threats to Pakistan emanated from Afghanistan.
"In this context, our action precisely targeted the terrorist hubs. Maximum precautions were taken and it was ensured that no collateral damage occurs," according to the ministry.
Deadly attacks
The precision targeting of militant hideouts comes amid a wave of attacks in KP, which, along with Balochistan, shares a border with Afghanistan.
Pakistan witnessed a surge in terror activities, particularly in KP and Balochistan, since 2021, when the Afghan Taliban came into power.
At least 22 people, including 16 police officials, were martyred and over 100 others injured after explosions targeted Kohat Police Lines during the Friday prayer on September 18.
The attack began when an explosives-laden vehicle rammed into the gate of the Old Police Lines before exploding, KP Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hamid told Geo News following the attack.
Gunfire also erupted after the blast, while another suicide explosion occurred at the Special Branch building during an exchange of fire between security personnel and the militants, he said.
On Saturday, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that security forces foiled an attempt by terrorists to disrupt public movement on the N-25 highway near Kalat, killing five militants and safely recovering 23 hostages.
The terrorists had established a checkpoint on the highway to abduct people, extort money and seize vehicles, according to the military's media wing.
Later that day, the ISPR said that security forces killed eight militants belonging to the India-sponsored Fitna al-Khawarij while six Pakistan Army personnel embraced martyrdom during the exchange of fire in Hangu.
During the intense exchange of fire, the military's media wing said six security personnel, including Captain Abuzar Farooq and Lieutenant Sheraz Babar, embraced martyrdom while leading their troops from the front and fighting gallantly.
