Pakistan on Monday announced it had conducted calibrated airstrikes against the hideouts and safe havens of the terrorist organizations responsible in the border region with Afghanistan.
“A well planned intelligence-based ground operation was carried out by security forces around Kohat, Hangu and Thal, followed by calibrated airstrikes against the hideouts and safe havens of terrorists organizations responsible for these attacks,” the Information Ministry announced on X.
It said security forces conducted the IBO and targeted the safe havens of militant organizations responsible for a spate of attacks across KP, which had resulted in the martyrdom of civilians and security personnel. The ground operation, it said, was conducted on Sept. 20 in Kohat and Hangu districts, resulting in the killing of nine terrorists and injuries to several others.
“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,” it continued, adding three targets were destroyed, including a suicide bomber training center, killing 28 terrorists, including several suicide bombers.
A large cache of weapons and ammunition stored at these centers and hideouts was also destroyed.
The ministry reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to strive for the maintenance of peace and stability in the region. However, it said, 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,” read the ministry’s statement, adding 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,” it added.
The IBO followed a suicide bombing and shootout at the Kohat Police Lines last week that resulted in the deaths of at least 22 people, including 16 police officials, and injured more than 100 others. In a statement, the ISPR said security forces killed eight terrorists of Fitna al-Khawarij while six Pakistan Army personnel embraced martyrdom during an exchange of fire in Hangu.