MIR ALI: Security forces killed three militants in an intelligence-based Mir Ali operation in North Waziristan, on Wednesday, state media reported.
According to security sources cited by state media, the troops acted on intelligence about the presence of Fitna al-Khawarij militants in Mir Ali and adjoining areas. The state uses the term Fitna al-Khawarij for members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan.
A large quantity of weapons and ammunition was recovered from the slain militants. Security sources said forces also targeted and destroyed militant hideouts in Mir Ali and nearby areas.
During the operation, security personnel also foiled an attempt by militants to intercept a ration truck near Mir Ali Bazaar. The truck was allowed to continue its journey safely.
The operation was carried out under the country’s counterterrorism campaign, Azm-e-Istehkam. Security sources reiterated their commitment to eliminating terrorism and restoring peace in the region.
Mir Ali operation: President, prime minister praise forces
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif separately praised the security forces for the operation, according to Radio Pakistan.
President Zardari said counterterrorism operations would continue to protect the lives and property of citizens, and that militant attempts to undermine security would be thwarted.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the forces for recovering weapons and ammunition from the killed militants. He said eliminating terrorism was among the government’s highest priorities and that operations against Fitna al-Khawarij would continue until the threat was eliminated.
Earlier operations in the region
On September 29, security forces reported killing five Fitna al-Khawarij militants in an intelligence-based operation in Bara, Khyber district. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from that site as well.
Mir Ali operation: What is an intelligence-based operation?
An intelligence-based operation is a targeted military or police action launched after credible information about the presence of militants. It differs from a broad clearance operation in that it focuses on specific locations identified through intelligence reports.
What does the term Fitna al-Khawarij mean?
Fitna al-Khawarij is the designation used by Pakistani authorities for militants affiliated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The group has been involved in attacks across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since breaking a ceasefire agreement with the government in 2022.
Mir Ali operation: Where is Mir Ali?
Mir Ali is a town in the North Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, close to the Afghanistan border. It has been a recurring focus of counterterrorism operations.
What is Azm-e-Istehkam?
Azm-e-Istehkam is the federal government’s counterterrorism campaign under which security forces conduct intelligence-based operations against militant groups across Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
