Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Monday that security forces eliminated two militants, including a key commander, during an intelligence-based operation in Bannu District.
According to the military, the operation was carried out on April 19 after receiving credible reports about the presence of militants in the area. During a heavy exchange of fire, two members of the Indian-backed Fitna-al-Khwarij group were killed, including their ringleader, Waheedullah alias Muktiar, along with a suicide bomber.
Security personnel also recovered a suicide vest, weapons, and ammunition from the scene.
ISPR stated that Waheedullah was a highly wanted figure involved in multiple terrorist attacks, including assaults that led to the martyrdom of both security personnel and civilians. He was also identified as the main handler behind a suicide attack in Bannu on February 21, 2026, which resulted in the martyrdom of Lieutenant Colonel Gul Faraz.
The military described the operation as a significant success, stating that it not only brought a key perpetrator to justice but also helped prevent a potential large-scale attack. A clearance operation is ongoing in the area to ensure no remaining militants are present.
The statement further emphasized that Pakistan’s counterterrorism drive under the vision of “Azm-e-Istehkam” will continue with full force to eliminate foreign-backed militancy.
Since the Afghan Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has witnessed a rise in cross-border attacks, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
In response to the growing threat, Pakistan launched Operation “Ghazab lil-Haq,” during which hundreds of Afghan Taliban-linked militants were killed and many others injured. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed that over 250 militant checkposts were also destroyed.
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan escalated further in October 2025, when cross-border clashes erupted following attacks on Pakistani border posts. The fighting resulted in the deaths of more than 200 militants and 23 Pakistani soldiers.
Despite several rounds of dialogue, both sides have yet to reach a resolution, largely due to Kabul’s reluctance to take decisive action against militant groups operating from its territory.