In a major counter-terrorism success, Pakistani security forces killed four khawarij belonging to the outlawed Ittehad-ul-Mujahideen group during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Mir Ali tehsil of North Waziristan on Monday.
According to security sources, the operation was launched in the village of Aziz Khel after credible intelligence indicated the presence of militants affiliated with the extremist faction known locally as Fitna al-Khawarij. Upon spotting the forces, the terrorists opened fire, prompting swift retaliatory action. In the ensuing gun battle, four militants were killed on the spot.
Security personnel recovered a large cache of weapons and explosives from the hideout, suggesting the militants were planning a major attack in the region. The slain operatives were reportedly linked to the Rehbar faction of Ittehad-ul-Mujahideen, a group responsible for multiple attacks on law enforcement and civilians in the past.
The successful operation underscores the ongoing efforts of Pakistan’s armed forces to eliminate terrorist elements from tribal areas and restore lasting peace. No casualties were reported among the security personnel.
The region has seen a resurgence in militant activity in recent months, prompting intensified surveillance and intelligence operations by the military. Further clearance operations are expected to continue in the area.
