Security forces eliminated two Khawarij and arrested another two during an intelligence-based operation in Lakki Marwat, officials confirmed on Saturday. The action reflects continuing counterterrorism efforts as Pakistan faces a sharp surge in extremist violence.
According to officials, the neutralized Khawarij were affiliated with a proscribed outfit. Arms and explosives were recovered from their possession, and following the operation the area was cleared. The operation comes amid a worrying escalation in violence. The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reported that August 2025 witnessed a 74 percent increase in attacks compared to July, making it the most violent month in more than a decade.
PICSS figures showed 143 incidents of violence across the country, leaving 194 people dead, including 73 security personnel, 62 civilians, 58 Khawarij, and one pro-government peace committee member. Another 231 were injured—129 security personnel, 92 civilians, eight Khawarij, and two peace committee members while at least 10 abductions were also reported.
Security analysts say the alarming rise underscores the urgency of stepped-up operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, which have suffered the heaviest toll from recent attacks.
