Security Forces Neutralize 14 Terrorists in North Waziristan IBO

RAWALPINDI: As part of ongoing counter-terrorism initiatives, security forces eliminated 14 terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as stated by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday.

According to the military’s media wing, the operation was initiated following reports of the presence of militants affiliated with an Indian proxy group, “Fitna al Khwarij”. Security forces effectively engaged the militants, resulting in the deaths of 14 terrorists after a fierce exchange of fire.

“Clearance operations are underway to eliminate any remaining terrorists with links to Indian sponsorship in the region,” the statement further mentioned.

This operation follows an incident the previous day in the Mach area of Balochistan’s Kachhi district, where five terrorists were killed during another IBO.

These IBOs are part of a broader national effort to combat terrorism, which experienced a slight surge in militant activities in May 2025.

Data from the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) in Islamabad indicates a 5% increase in attacks compared to April. However, the overall assessment suggests that militant groups have largely remained contained, despite the prevailing regional geopolitical environment.

According to the PICSS monthly security assessment, May saw 85 militant attacks, a slight increase from 81 in April.

These attacks resulted in 113 fatalities, including 52 security forces personnel, 46 civilians, 11 militants, and four members of peace committees. Additionally, 182 individuals were injured, comprising 130 civilians, 47 security personnel, four militants, and one peace committee member.

While the total number of attacks experienced only a marginal increase, a more detailed examination of the data reveals concerning patterns.

Fatalities among security personnel rose by a notable 73%, highlighting the ongoing threats faced by Pakistan’s armed forces.

Civilian injuries also increased dramatically by 145%, rising from 53 in April to 130 in May, indicating the growing impact of militant activities on the civilian population. Conversely, injuries among security personnel decreased by 20%, from 59 to 47.

During operations conducted by security forces in May, at least 59 militants were killed, while five security personnel lost their lives.

Furthermore, seven security personnel and five militants were injured. Security forces also apprehended 52 suspected militants during various intelligence-based operations.

Combining militant attacks and security operations, the overall casualty count for May reached 172, including 57 security personnel, 65 militants, 46 civilians, and four peace committee members.

A total of 194 individuals sustained injuries, including 130 civilians, 54 security personnel, nine militants, and one peace committee member. Militants also abducted at least 19 people during the month.

A key aspect of the security situation in May was a 78% increase in the deaths of security personnel, contrasting with a 68% decrease in militant deaths compared to April. May marked the first month since October 2024 in which militant fatalities were recorded in double digits (65), a significant decrease from 203 in April.

Balochistan and KP remained the most affected provinces, accounting for 82 of the 85 attacks nationwide. Balochistan experienced the highest level of violence, with 35 militant attacks resulting in 51 deaths—including 30 civilians, 18 security personnel, and three militants—and 100 injuries (94 civilians, five security personnel, one militant).