At least 16 militants of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were killed when Special Services Group (SSG) commandos and Pakistan Army troops carried out a successful intelligence-based operation in the Kot Sultan area of Dera Ismail Khan, security officials confirmed on Tuesday.
According to officials, the joint operation was launched after the presence of the Sher Ali group, a TTP faction involved in attacks across southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was detected through actionable intelligence. The group had been using mud compounds and temporary shelters in the area as hideouts and was reportedly regrouping for future attacks.
As the forces moved in, the militants opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange. Troops responded with precision, killing 16 militants linked to the group’s commander. Two additional militants were found injured and were taken into custody for interrogation.
Security sources said the operation is part of the “focused counter-terrorism push” underway across the DI Khan, Tank, and Lakki Marwat belt, where remnants of TTP cells have attempted to relocate following sustained pressure in other districts.
Troops later secured the area and recovered weapons, ammunition and communication equipment used by the group.
22 Militants Eliminated in Bannu
Earlier, between 24 and 25 November, security forces eliminated 22 militants in a major intelligence-based operation in Bannu, marking one of the most significant counter-terrorism actions in the district in recent months.
