Security Forces Kill 22 Militants in North Waziristan Operation

Updated: 9:31 AM PKT — May 20, 2026

In a separate search and clearance operation in the Khyber district, security forces killed another 17 terrorists. A significant quantity of weapons and ammunition was also recovered from the slain individuals.

Updated: 5:16 AM PKT — May 20, 2026

Further details regarding the location of the operation have now been clarified. The engagement took place in the Shawal/Shewa area of North Waziristan.

Updated: 4:29 AM PKT — May 20, 2026

The intelligence-based operation lasted for 48 hours and specifically targeted terrorist hideouts in the area. According to official sources, the engagement has now concluded.

Updated: 2:49 AM PKT — May 20, 2026

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi have commended the security forces for the successful operation, reaffirming the nation’s resolve to eliminate all forms of terrorism. The recovered arms and ammunition have reportedly been linked to Indian-sponsored terrorist groups.

Updated: 11:45 PM PKT — May 19, 2026

The slain terrorists were affiliated with the Khawarij group. According to the latest details, the cache of weapons and ammunition was recovered directly from the possession of the neutralized militants.

Updated: 11:26 PM PKT — May 19, 2026

The Inter-Services Public Relations has now confirmed that 20 terrorists were killed in the Shawal operation. According to the military’s media wing, the recovered weapons and ammunition were found in the terrorists’ hideouts.

Updated: 10:49 PM PKT — May 19, 2026

The operation took place in the Shewa/Laki area of North Waziristan, where terrorist hideouts were effectively targeted. Security forces have also vowed that such operations will continue until terrorism is completely eradicated from the country.

Updated: 10:28 PM PKT — May 19, 2026

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces for the successful counter-terrorism action. The intelligence-based engagement has been described as a major operation.

Updated: 9:02 PM PKT — May 19, 2026

According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the slain militants were allegedly receiving support from India. The military linked this alleged foreign backing to the numerous terrorist activities the militants were involved in.

Updated: 8:25 PM PKT — May 19, 2026

Official sources have referred to the slain terrorists as ‘Khawarij’. The recovered cache of weapons and ammunition was found in the terrorists’ hideouts.