PESHAWAR: Security forces have killed at least 30 militants during an intelligence-based operation against Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khawarij in North Waziristan, security sources said.
Acting on credible intelligence, security forces conducted operations in various parts of North Waziristan, including Boballi village, Shewa, Spinwam, and surrounding areas.
The operation was launched on the night of May 17–18, 2026, following a reported infiltration attempt from Afghanistan. Authorities said complete tactical surprise was achieved at the outset.
According to the statement, the area was cleared through coordinated action by multiple units, including infantry and special operations elements, supported by surveillance and mechanised forces. The final clearance phase was completed on May 20.
In the latest phase of the operation, security forces eliminated four Khawarij, including a high-value target identified as Jaan Mir, also known as Toor Saqib.
The slain commander carried a bounty of Rs 3 million, officials said.
Security sources added that 13 bodies were recovered on site, while several others were later located during follow-up search operations and surveillance-assisted tracking. Additional bodies were also recovered by local personnel, while some were reportedly swept away by floodwaters in a nearby stream. Search operations are continuing.
Security forces also defused and destroyed 11 improvised explosive devices during the operation and dismantled multiple militant hideouts and underground bunkers.
Two suspects were apprehended during the operation.
A cache of weapons and equipment was recovered, including assault rifles, a pistol, a shotgun, ammunition magazines, mobile phones, communication equipment, grenades, chest rigs, and identification-related materials.
The area was later sanitised after the completion of combat and clearance phases, the statement added.
Authorities said the operation targeted militant infrastructure and was conducted on intelligence inputs in a coordinated manner involving multiple security units.
