RAWALPINDI: Security forces engaged in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dera Ismail Khan district on Tuesday, resulting in the death of a terrorist following an exchange of fire.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the operation was launched in response to intelligence indicating the presence of terrorists in the area.

During the operation, a fierce gun battle erupted between security forces and the militants, resulting in the killing of a terrorist identified as Muhammad Sohail.

The ISPR stated that Sohail was involved in various terrorist activities, including the targeting of innocent civilians.

Additionally, weapons, ammunition, and explosives were seized from his possession.

Furthermore, the ISPR mentioned that a sanitization operation was underway to clear the area of any remaining terrorists.

It emphasized the resolve of Pakistan’s security forces to eradicate the threat of terrorism from the country.

This operation occurs amidst a rise in terrorist incidents across Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, following the termination of the ceasefire between the government and the banned militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan in November 2022.

Earlier on February 17, security forces carried out two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, resulting in the elimination of nine terrorists, including two high-profile individuals.

In one operation in the Tank District, militants Rehmat Ullah alias Badar Mansur and Amjad alias Babri were neutralized, while in another operation in South Waziristan District, seven terrorists were killed following a fierce exchange of fire.