Pakistan’s security forces killed 22 militants during an intelligence-based operation in the Shewa district of North Waziristan, according to the military’s media wing.
In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations said the operation was launched after security agencies received reports about the presence of militants in the area. Heavy exchanges of fire reportedly took place over the past 24 hours.
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The military said the slain militants were involved in multiple terrorist activities and described them as “Indian-sponsored terrorists.” Weapons and ammunition were also recovered during the operation.
شمالی وزیرستان میں سیکیورٹی فورسز کا آپریشن، خوارج ہلاک کردیے گئے۔ کارروائی کے دوران بھاری مقدار میں اسلحہ اور گولہ بارود برآمد کیا گیا۔ دہشت گردوں نے مقامی آبادی کو اپنے اثر میں رکھا ہوا تھا۔
نجم ولی خان۔#PTVNewsHD #PTVhttps://t.co/FNY6r6sIRj pic.twitter.com/NwoCUJclHz— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) May 20, 2026
The statement added that a clearance operation remains underway to eliminate any remaining militants and secure the area completely. Security forces continue to conduct intelligence-based operations in different regions to curb militant activities and maintain stability.
The development comes amid ongoing efforts by Pakistan’s military and law enforcement agencies to counter terrorism in border regions, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where attacks on security personnel have increased in recent months.
Separately, Chief of Army Staff Syed Asim Munir reaffirmed the military’s resolve against militancy during a visit to Quetta Garrison. Addressing officers and troops deployed in Balochistan, he said hostile forces attempting to destabilise Pakistan through proxy groups and propaganda would fail.
According to the military, the army chief stressed that Pakistan’s progress and stability could not be undermined through “fake news, propaganda, or externally sponsored terrorism.” He also praised the efforts and sacrifices of security personnel engaged in operations across the country.
Read More: Pakistan Security Forces Kill 8 Indian Terrorists in North Waziristan
Pakistan has witnessed a rise in militant violence in recent years, prompting intensified counterterrorism operations by security forces in several sensitive districts near the Afghan border.