In recent operations, Pakistani law enforcement agencies have reportedly killed several Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorists in Punjab province. These actions underscore the ongoing efforts by the Pakistani government to combat terrorism and maintain security within its borders, particularly in regions bordering Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
According to reports from April 2025, a joint operation by the Punjab Police and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in the Makarwal area of Mianwali district resulted in the killing of ten suspected TTP terrorists. During the operation, several other terrorists were reportedly injured. There were no casualties among the security forces, although one citizen sustained injuries due to the terrorists' firing. Following the event, Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar commended the Mianwali police and the CTD for their success and affirmed the Punjab Police's commitment to crushing terrorist plans. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also lauded the police for neutralizing the threat.
Another security operation occurred in the Kotani Tal area of Dera Ghazi Khan district. According to local police reports from April 2025, this joint effort involving the Punjab Police, Pakistan Rangers, and CTD resulted in the death of two terrorists and injuries to several others. The forces were acting on intelligence reports about the presence of militants in the area. During the operation, the suspects, armed with rockets, hand grenades, and automatic weapons, initiated fire. A police elite force officer and a CTD official sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment.
These incidents reflect a broader trend of increased security operations in Punjab and other regions of Pakistan. Data indicates a rise in terrorist activities, particularly by the TTP, since the end of their ceasefire with the government in November 2022. The TTP, listed as a global terrorist organization by the United Nations, has been increasingly active in the bordering regions, using havens and training camps in Afghanistan to carry out cross-border attacks.
In response to the escalating violence, Pakistan has launched counter-insurgency operations, including the "Azm-e-Istekham," aimed at addressing both internal security threats and cross-border insurgency. These operations involve intelligence-based actions by security forces, as well as efforts to enhance coordination between various law enforcement agencies, such as the police, CTD, and Rangers.
The Counter Terrorism Departments (CTD) play a crucial role in Pakistan's fight against terrorism. Functioning as intelligence and investigation bureaus, the CTDs are responsible for conducting operations, gathering intelligence, and training elite counter-terrorism units. They also monitor individuals and groups suspected of involvement in terrorist activities. The CTD in Punjab, for instance, has its own Counter Terrorism Force to conduct raids and respond to terrorist threats.
While the recent operations in Punjab have been successful in neutralizing some TTP terrorists, the threat of terrorism remains a significant challenge for Pakistan. The TTP's presence and activities continue to pose risks to security and stability, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The Pakistani government remains focused on strengthening its counter-terrorism measures and working with regional and international partners to address the root causes of terrorism and extremism.
