ISLAMABAD, Sunday, June 1, 2025 (WNP): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday praised the Punjab Police for successfully eliminating four militants affiliated with a banned outfit during an intelligence-based operation in Dera Ghazi Khan.

The operation, conducted in the Kot Mubarak area near the Punjab-Khyber Pakhtunkhwa border, targeted members of the so-called Fitna al-Khawarij group, who were allegedly involved in spreading fear among local communities. Acting on credible intelligence, law enforcement agencies launched a search operation that led to a fierce gunbattle, resulting in the deaths of four militants. Arms and ammunition were recovered from the scene, according to a police spokesperson.

President Zardari commended the bravery and professionalism of the police, stating that the operation was a clear testament to the nation’s commitment to eradicating terrorism. “Our law enforcement agencies will continue their efforts until the complete elimination of terrorist elements,” he said, reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve to wipe out Fitna al-Khawarij and other extremist groups.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the successful action, praising the police force for its swift and effective response. “The entire nation stands united in the war against terrorism,” he said, emphasizing that the fight would continue until the last remnants of terror networks were dismantled. He credited the timely intervention of police with thwarting what could have been a major attack.

Inspector General of Punjab Police Dr. Usman Anwar hailed the operation as a significant success and reiterated the force’s determination to uphold law and order. “There will be no compromise on security,” he said, warning that those who seek to destabilize the province would face the full force of the law.

The operation was overseen by Regional Police Officer (RPO) Dera Ghazi Khan Captain (Retd) Sajjad Hassan Khan and District Police Officer (DPO) Syed Ali. While four militants were neutralized, police officials confirmed that a number of suspects fled into nearby terrain under cover of dense vegetation. A follow-up search-and-sweep operation is currently underway to track down the remaining fugitives.