No mass evictions during Azm-e-Istehkam operation: security sources

PESHAWAR: Security officials have clarified that the Azm-e-Istehkam operation has been misunderstood, emphasizing that it is solely aimed at combating terrorism and drug trafficking.

According to security sources, the operation, which aims to prevent terrorism-related crimes and trafficking, has been misrepresented. They stressed that, unlike past operations, terrorists have not established themselves anywhere.

“There will be no mass operation nor will anyone be evicted from their homes,” the sources stated, adding that a multi-pronged policy will be formulated to combat terrorism and bring stability across the country.

They explained that an effective mechanism will be enacted to prevent drug trafficking and punish terrorists. “Terrorists will be brought to justice, with no room for negotiations,” the sources affirmed.

The sources further emphasized the connection between drug money and terrorism, noting that efforts to tackle trafficking and narcotics will be intensified. “An effective strategy is essential for lasting peace,” they concluded.

It should be remembered that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday last approved a reinvigorated and re-energised national counter-terrorism campaign “Operation ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ with the consensus of all stakeholders including provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, symbolising the national resolve to eradicate extremism and terrorism from the country.

A day after the prime minister approved the operation, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) expressed strong opposition to such operations without taking parliament into confidence, emphasising that no apex committee was above the parliament.

Speaking to the media outside the Parliament House, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan had criticised the handling of parliamentary procedures, stating, “Today we tried to speak, but our microphone was turned off, on which we walked out of the Parliament in protest.”