Security forces kill 8 terrorists in Dera Ismail Khan IBO: state media

Security forces have killed eight terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to state media. The terrorists were reportedly part of Fitna-al-Khawarij, a banned group linked to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. Among those killed were three key terrorist commanders, and authorities recovered foreign currency, along with a significant quantity of arms and ammunition from the slain individuals.

The IBO is part of Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, launched in June 2024, which underscores Pakistan's commitment to eradicating extremism and terrorism from the nation. Both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces for their prompt and effective response in Dera Ismail Khan. The Pakistani government stands united in the fight against terrorism, according to a statement from President Zardari, adding that terrorist activities, even with foreign backing and local facilitation, will not prevail.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has long been grappling with a rise in terrorist attacks and security threats. In August, the province recorded 54 such incidents, a 50% increase from July's 36 attacks. In response to these incidents, security forces across the province have been conducting multiple operations. On Saturday, five Fitna al Khawarij terrorists were killed in an IBO in South Waziristan, while seven more were eliminated in North Waziristan's Eidak area on Friday.

Other operations in Mir Ali and Bara districts resulted in the deaths of three and five terrorists, respectively, within a week. Attacks continue to pose a significant threat, with a major incident on September 18 claiming 23 lives in Kohat and injuring about 100 others during an overnight clearance operation. On September 26, a suicide bomber killed 14 people and injured 35 in a targeted attack in DI Khan.