Eighteen militants killed in Mastung, North Waziristan operations: State media

Security forces killed 18 militants in two operations in Mastung, Balochistan, and North Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, state media reported on Wednesday, citing security sources.

Radio Pakistan reported that 13 militants were killed in an intelligence-based operation in North Waziristan. Forces targeted hideouts of Fitna al-Khawarij, the state’s term for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and affiliated groups, taking what the sources called decisive action against their movements. The operation was carried out under the government’s Azm-i-Istehkam initiative, they said.

PTV reported that five militants were killed in operations in the Siapusht and Kili Gishtri areas of Mastung, citing security sources. Weapons and ammunition were recovered, and clearance and search operations were continuing.

The sources said operations would continue with full intensity until terrorism was eliminated and that the forces remained committed to establishing lasting peace.

Naqvi lauds forces

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for what he called successful operations against the “khawarij” in Mastung and North Waziristan. He commended their professionalism in killing 18 “Indian-sponsored terrorists”, and said he was proud of the brave sons of the nation who had foiled the militants’ nefarious designs.

“The operations by the security forces reflect their resolve to protect national security,” he said, adding that he paid tribute to the country’s brave sons. “The nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the security forces in the war against terrorism.”

Operations against “Fitna al-Hindustan” and “Fitna al-Khawarij” were continuing with full force and would continue, Naqvi said.

Tuesday’s operation

On Tuesday, security sources said forces had killed five militants and wounded two others in a separate operation in North Waziristan. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the forces, saying operations against Fitna al-Khawarij would continue until terrorism was eliminated.