ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday lauded police and the counterterrorism department (CTD) in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province for killing nine militants during a counterterror operation, Sharif’s office said in a statement.

As per the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), police and CTD officials in the northwestern Lower Dir district killed nine militants belonging to the Pakistani Taliban or the Tehreek-e-Taliban.

The TTP has claimed responsibility for some of the deadliest attacks in northwestern Pakistan in recent years. Their attacks have increased since November 2022, when a fragile truce between the state and the militants broke down.

“CTD and police officers and personnel are working day and night to protect our beloved homeland from the evil intentions of the Khawarij,” Sharif was quoted as saying by his office.

Pakistan’s government and military frequently use the term “khawarij” to describe TTP militants.

“The entire nation, including myself, is proud of our brave officers and personnel,” Sharif added.

Local media quoted SSP Upper Dir Syed Muhammad Bilal as saying that two civilians lost their lives while 10 police, CTD personnel sustained injuries during the operation.

Sharif expressed sorrow over the loss of civilian lives in the operation and prayed for patience and strength for the families of the victims.

“He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the personnel injured in the operation and directed that they be provided with the best possible medical care,” the PMO said.

Pakistan has frequently blamed Afghanistan for not taking action against the TTP and other militant groups it alleges operate from the country.

Kabul has denied the allegations and urged Pakistan to solve its security challenges itself. Pakistan’s accusations have strained its ties with Afghanistan in recent months.

Surging militant attacks in recent years have become a headache for Islamabad. Pakistan was recognized as the world’s second-most affected country by militant violence in 2024, with deaths rising 45 percent to 1,081, according to the Global Terrorism Index 2025.