Rawalpindi: Security forces eliminated a militant in the early hours of Tuesday after he attempted to plant an improvised explosive device (IED) targeting civilians in Bannu District, the military’s media wing ISPR said. Armed Forces reiterated that operations will persist at full pace, aiming to protect innocent civilians and restore lasting stability.
Failed Attack Highlights Growing Frustration
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the militant identified as a member of an Indian proxy group was killed before he could carry out the attack. The incident, officials said, underscores the increasing desperation of militants who, due to sustained counter-terrorism operations, are turning to soft targets in frustration.
Moreover, security forces said these failed attempts indicate diminishing operational capacity and mounting pressure on these groups from ongoing law enforcement actions.
Security Forces Launch Sanitization Operation
Additionally, a sanitization operation is underway to locate and eliminate any other militants in the area. Security officials said the operation is part of the wider “Azm-e-Istehkam” campaign, approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.
Furthermore, ISPR emphasized that Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies will continue their relentless counter-terrorism efforts to eradicate foreign-sponsored militancy from the country.
23 Khawarij Sent to Hell Earlier
Between November 16 and 17, 2025, Pakistan’s security forces killed 23 militants linked to the Indian proxy group Fitna Al Khwarij in two separate operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. Acting on intelligence reports, troops conducted a targeted operation in Bajaur District, successfully engaging the militants and eliminating 11, including the ring leader Sajjad, also known as Abuzar.
Meanwhile, in Bannu District, forces neutralized 12 more militants during a separate intelligence-based operation. Additionally, sanitization efforts are underway to remove any remaining militants in the area, as Pakistan’s counter-terrorism campaign under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” initiative continues at full pace to eradicate foreign-sponsored terrorism and secure the region.
