Two Pakistan Army soldiers were martyred while 15 terrorists were eliminated during three separate security operations conducted across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), according to a statement issued on Saturday.
Security forces launched an intelligence-based operation in Karak district following reports of terrorist presence. During the operation, troops effectively engaged the militants, killing eight individuals.
In a separate operation in North Waziristan district, four terrorists were neutralised. However, during the intense exchange of fire, two soldiers — Lance Naik Usman Mohmand and Sepoy Imran Khan — fought bravely and embraced martyrdom.
Another encounter occurred in the Gomal Zam area of South Waziristan, where security forces killed three militants. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain individuals, who were reportedly involved in multiple acts of terrorism.
Sanitisation operations are underway to clear any remaining threats in the region. Authorities emphasized that the sacrifices of these brave soldiers reinforce the nation’s resolve to eradicate terrorism.
Pakistan has seen a notable rise in militant activities, particularly in KP and Balochistan, following the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. Officials have accused hostile groups of orchestrating attacks from Afghan territory.
Data from the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) revealed that terror attacks surged by 42% in January 2025 compared to the previous month. Nationwide, 74 militant incidents were recorded, resulting in 91 deaths, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Another 117 people were injured, comprising 53 security personnel, 54 civilians, and 10 militants.
KP remained the most affected province, followed by Balochistan. In the settled areas of KP, militants carried out 27 attacks, leading to 19 deaths — including 11 security personnel, six civilians, and two militants. The tribal districts of KP experienced 19 attacks, causing 46 fatalities, among them 13 security personnel, eight civilians, and 25 militants.
