ISLAMABAD: The security forces have foiled an attempted infiltration from Afghanistan into the country’s northwestern border region, killing 15 Khawarij in an engagement that lasted for around 36 hours.
The incident occurred along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border opposite North Waziristan, with reports identifying the Ghulam Khan area as the location of the attempted crossing.
The security forces detected the movement of a group of militants during the night of August 31 and September 1 before they could enter Pakistani territory.
The military’s media wing said troops responded to the movement and engaged the infiltrators in what it described as a precise and coordinated operation. The confrontation continued for approximately 36 hours, ultimately resulting in the deaths of all 15 militants, according to the military statement.
The military also alleged that the group was sponsored by India, an allegation that has been rejected by India and is part of Pakistan’s broader accusations regarding militant activity.
Security personnel continued searching the surrounding area for any additional militants, according to the statement.
The incident has also renewed Pakistan’s concerns over militant groups allegedly operating from Afghan territory. ISPR said the attempted infiltration reinforced Islamabad’s longstanding position that Afghan soil should not be used for cross-border terrorism against Pakistan.
Pakistan has repeatedly called on Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities to improve border management and prevent armed groups from using its territory against Pakistan.
Border Security Remains a Major Concern
The latest incident comes amid continued tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and a broader increase in militant violence in the region.
The attempted infiltration and subsequent military response underscore the continuing security challenges along Pakistan’s western frontier, where Islamabad and Kabul remain divided over militant activity, border management and allegations concerning the use of territory for attacks.
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Pakistan’s security forces have reiterated their readiness to protect the country’s borders and respond to further infiltration attempts.
