Security forces on Monday eliminated nine militants, including a top commander, in an intelligence-based operation in the Takwara area of DI Khan, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The operation, based on precise intelligence, targeted the hideouts of extremists involved in recent terrorist activities. Among those killed was Shireen, a most-wanted militant commander, who was held responsible for several deadly attacks, including the March 20 martyrdom of Captain Hasnain Akhtar. During the operation, various weapons and ammunition were recovered from the scene.

The ISPR stated that Shireen had long been on the radar of law enforcement agencies and was directly involved in orchestrating heinous terror acts. His elimination marks a crucial victory in bringing those responsible for past atrocities to justice. Following the successful raid, a clearance operation was also conducted to ensure that no other threats remained in the area.

Just a day earlier, security forces foiled another infiltration attempt along the Pak-Afghan border in North Waziristan’s Hassan Khel area. During that encounter, eight militants were killed, and four injured fighters were captured. ISPR reiterated Pakistan’s repeated calls to the Afghan interim government to ensure effective border management and prevent the use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities against Pakistan.

The continued operations form part of Pakistan's broader strategy to root out terrorism. ISPR stated that the sanitization efforts are ongoing, and security forces remain determined to eliminate every trace of militancy from the region.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari praised the successful operation. The president applauded the forces for taking down a high-value target, while the prime minister reaffirmed that the entire nation stands with the armed forces in the fight against terrorism. "We are fully committed to eradicating terrorism in all its forms," said Shehbaz Sharif.