QUETTA, 27 August 2026 (Kamran Raja): Security forces have killed 11 militants in separate intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, according to security sources.The operations were conducted in Bannu and South Waziristan districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Sasool area of Khuzdar district in Balochistan against militants affiliated with Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan. According to the sources, two militants belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij were killed during an intelligence-based operation in Bannu. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the area, while the militants’ hideout was also destroyed using explosive material. In Ladha area of South Waziristan, security forces launched an operation after receiving intelligence about militant activity. Five militants were killed after their movement was detected and the area was effectively cordoned off by the security personnel.Meanwhile, four militants affiliated with Fitna al-Hindustan were killed during an operation in Sasool, Khuzdar. The militants were effectively targeted with the assistance of quadcopters. Security sources said all necessary precautions were taken during the operations to protect the lives and property of civilians and prevent harm to the local population.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the security forces for successfully carrying out the operations and eliminating 11 militants. In separate statements, the president and prime minister praised the professionalism and sacrifices of the security forces and reiterated their resolve to completely eliminate terrorism from the country. President Zardari said the elimination of terrorists affiliated with Fitna al-Hindustan and Fitna al-Khawarij was essential for safeguarding national security and achieving sustainable peace. He said the nation took pride in the capabilities and achievements of the security forces and law enforcement agencies.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the entire nation stood firmly with the security forces in the fight against terrorism and acknowledged their sacrifices and continued efforts to protect the country.Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also commended the security forces for conducting successful intelligence-based operations in KP and Balochistan. He said the elimination of 11 militants demonstrated the preparedness, professionalism and operational capability of the security forces and helped thwart terrorist plans in different areas. Naqvi paid tribute to the officers and personnel involved in the operations, saying their courage and dedication continued to strengthen Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting all measures aimed at eliminating terrorism and maintaining peace and stability across the country, adding that national unity remained vital to defeating militant groups and ensuring lasting security.