Quetta: Six terrorists attempting to infiltrate Pakistan via the Pakistan-Afghanistan border were neutralized by security forces in the Sambaza area of Zhob district, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The operation took place during the night between January 22 and 23 after the movement of the group was detected.
The ISPR stated, “Security forces effectively engaged the group, preventing their infiltration and eliminating six militants associated with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).” The operation also led to the recovery of a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives.
Pakistan has urged the interim Afghan government to ensure proper border management and prevent Afghan soil from being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. “The security forces remain resolute in securing the borders and eradicating terrorism,” the ISPR emphasized.
This operation comes amidst heightened concerns over border security and increasing terror activity. Earlier this month, an Afghan national involved in terrorist activities within Pakistan was killed in a security operation in Zhob. Identified as Muhammad Khan Ahmedkhel, a resident of Afghanistan’s Paktika Province, his body was handed over to Afghan authorities after procedural formalities.
The ISPR highlighted this incident as evidence of Afghan nationals’ involvement in terrorism in Pakistan, reinforcing Islamabad’s long-standing concerns. The Pakistani government has consistently called on Afghanistan to address the use of its territory by the TTP, although Kabul denies the allegations.
The growing security challenges have strained Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, leading to border clashes and tense interactions. During a recent meeting with political leaders, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir underscored the interim Afghan government’s lack of cooperation despite repeated warnings.
Amid this backdrop, Pakistan’s security forces have intensified operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, regions witnessing a surge in terrorist activities. A recent report by the Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) revealed a sharp increase in terror incidents in 2024, with KP recording 295 attacks and Balochistan seeing a 119% rise in incidents attributed to Baloch insurgent groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF).
The report warned that the current situation mirrors the heightened insecurity of 2014, with KP and Balochistan bearing the brunt of over 95% of terrorist attacks in 2024. Security forces remain committed to addressing these challenges and safeguarding the country.
