At least nine militants were killed during a three-day Upper Dir operation carried out by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Upper Dir district. The senior superintendent of police (SSP) Syed Muhammad Bilal confirmed the operation targeted militants linked to Fitna al-Khawarij.
The clearance operation covered nearly 20 square kilometres, including areas such as Hill Top, Dobando Dara, Masala Banda, Shandal Bagh, Itan Dara, Bagh Kale, and Sanger. Bad weather and dense forests slowed the operation, the SSP said.
Police, elite forces, and rapid response personnel participated in the mission. During the clashes, two civilians lost their lives, and ten CTD and police personnel were injured. Authorities emphasized that the operation was crucial to eliminating the militants’ threat in the region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the forces for their professional work. He expressed sorrow over the civilian casualties and prayed for the injured personnel’s speedy recovery. The PM also acknowledged the elimination of nine militants during the operation.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also lauded the bravery of the CTD and KP Police. He said the operation thwarted the terrorists’ plans and demonstrated the exceptional courage of the security forces.
Pakistan has seen an increase in militant activity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan since 2021. Reports from the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) indicate that June alone witnessed 78 terrorist attacks, resulting in at least 100 deaths, including security personnel, civilians, and militants.
Security forces continue to conduct targeted operations against extremist groups across KP and other regions. Earlier this month, 47 militants attempting to infiltrate from Afghanistan were killed in Balochistan’s Zhob district. The recent Upper Dir operation reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to secure the country from terrorism.
These tragic events highlight the urgent need for addressing rising frustration in society, as also seen in the recent Upper Dir operation.
To understand how minor disputes are escalating into tragic events, read our in-depth analysis on Two Killed for Rs30: Murders Over Petty Disputes Reflect Rising Frustration in Society.
