Security Forces Eliminate ‘High Value Target’ in Lower Dir Operation
Pakistani security forces neutralized two terrorists, including a “high value target,” during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Timergara area of Lower Dir district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the military’s media wing confirmed on Friday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was launched based on intelligence reports regarding the presence of terrorists in the area.
“During the conduct of operation, own troops surrounded and effectively engaged the Khawarij location, and after intense fire exchange, two Khawarij, including a high value target, Kharji Hafeezullah alias Kochwan, were sent to hell,” stated the ISPR.
Terrorist with Rs10 Million Bounty Killed
The ISPR described Hafeezullah as a “notorious terrorist” involved in numerous attacks against security personnel and civilians. He was on the law enforcement’s most-wanted list, with a bounty of *Rs10 million* on his head.
A sanitization operation is ongoing to ensure the elimination of any remaining threats in the area, the ISPR added.
“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country,” the statement emphasized.
Prime Minister Commends Forces, Reaffirms Resolve
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the operation and the efforts of the security forces, saying the action reflects the nation’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism.
“The fight against terrorism will continue until the complete eradication of this menace from the country,” he stated.
Cross-Border Terrorism Concerns Continue
Despite repeated requests to Afghanistan to prevent the use of its territory by terrorists, Pakistan continues to face cross-border incursions. The porous 2,500-kilometre border between the two nations remains a key security challenge.
A recent UN Security Council report by the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team corroborated Islamabad’s concerns, highlighting the link between the Taliban-led administration in Kabul and the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), including the provision of *logistical, operational, and financial support*.
Spike in Attacks Across Pakistan
The latest operation follows a deadly trend. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), 74 militant attacks were recorded in January 2025 alone—a 42% increase from December 2024.
These attacks resulted in 91 fatalities, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants, along with 117 injuries nationwide.
– Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) was the worst-affected region.
– Settled districts saw 27 attacks, killing 11 security personnel and six civilians.
– Former tribal areas witnessed 19 attacks, leading to 46 deaths, including 25 militants.
Last month, at least 16 terrorists were killed in North Waziristan while attempting to cross into Pakistan from Afghanistan, reinforcing the ongoing threat along the western border.
