Rawalpindi, March 8, 2026: Pakistan’s security forces killed 13 militants during a series of intelligence-driven operations conducted on March 6–7 in different districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as part of the country’s ongoing counterterrorism campaign, according to the military’s media wing.
In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the operations targeted militants described as belonging to “Fitna Al Khwarij,” which it termed an Indian proxy network.
During an intelligence-based operation in Bajaur district, security forces engaged a militant hideout. Following an intense exchange of fire, five militants were killed.
In two separate encounters in Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan districts, security forces neutralized three more militants belonging to the same group.
Simultaneously, in two additional engagements in Khyber and South Waziristan districts, troops killed five militants during firefights with armed groups.
According to the ISPR, weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain militants, who were allegedly involved in multiple terrorist activities in the region.
The military statement noted that these operations are being carried out as Pakistan continues to address emerging security challenges along its border with Afghanistan.
The security forces reaffirmed their resolve to defend the country’s frontiers and eliminate militancy. The ISPR said sanitization operations are ongoing in the affected areas to clear any remaining militants.
It added that the counterterrorism campaign under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam, approved by the federal apex committee of the National Action Plan, will continue at full pace to eradicate foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.
