MILITARY

5 Terrorists Killed in IBO in Khyber’s Tirah Valley

Security forces eliminate five terrorists, including ringleader Abidullah, in a Khyber IBO. Pakistan remains steadfast in eradicating terrorism.
2025-01-17
5 Terrorists Killed in IBO in Khyber’s Tirah Valley

Five terrorists, including a key ringleader, were neutralized during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Tirah area of Khyber district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Friday. The operation was conducted by Pakistan’s security forces, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The ISPR revealed that the operation was launched based on credible intelligence about terrorist presence in the region. Security forces engaged the suspects, resulting in the elimination of five terrorists, including their leader, Abidullah, also known as Turab. One terrorist was apprehended during the operation, and weapons and ammunition were recovered from the site.

The ISPR noted that the slain terrorists were actively involved in multiple attacks on security forces and civilians in the area. The operation also included a sanitization process to ensure no other terrorists remained in the vicinity.

“The security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country,” the ISPR emphasized in its statement.

Recent Escalation in Terror Activities

This operation follows a series of counter-terrorism measures in the region. Since December 14, security forces have conducted multiple IBOs in Tirah, killing 22 terrorists and injuring 18 others.

Recent reports indicate that armed militants have retreated from central parts of Tirah valley to peripheral hilly areas or have crossed into Afghanistan and neighboring Orakzai district. Despite their retreat, terror activities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have surged in recent months, particularly following the collapse of a fragile ceasefire agreement with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in 2022.

Deadliest Year for Security Forces

Pakistan faced a sharp rise in terror attacks in 2024. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), 685 members of security forces were killed in 444 terror attacks last year, making it the deadliest year for security forces in a decade.

ISPR Director General noted that 59,775 counter-terrorism operations were conducted in 2024, leading to the elimination of 925 terrorists. However, these operations came at a high cost, with 383 officers and soldiers martyred.

Security Forces’ Resolve

The ongoing IBOs in Tirah underline the military’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region. As militants face sustained pressure from security forces, the government and military vow to continue operations until the menace of terrorism is eradicated.