RCCI calls for stronger Pakistan-Indonesia trade ties

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s security forces killed 32 terrorists during two intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan over the past 24 hours, the military’s media wing said on Wednesday, describing the raids as part of an intensified campaign against militant groups operating in the country. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), 24 militants were killed during a series of targeted operations in Khyber district, while another eight were eliminated in separate operations in Nushki district of Balochistan. The operations were launched following recent terrorist attacks in both provinces and were carried out to dismantle militant networks and their support infrastructure. The military said security forces conducted multiple intelligence-driven raids in Khyber during the night of July 28–29, successfully engaging terrorist hideouts and neutralising militants identified as members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), referred to by the state as Fitna al-Khawarij. In Balochistan’s Nushki district, security personnel launched coordinated operations against militants linked to the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), referred to officially as Fitna al-Hindustan. After an intense exchange of fire, eight militants were killed, while weapons, ammunition and improvised explosive devices were recovered and destroyed. The ISPR said clearance operations were continuing in both regions to ensure that any remaining militants or facilitators were eliminated. It reaffirmed that Pakistan’s nationwide counterterrorism campaign under the Azm-e-Istehkam strategy would continue with full force to eradicate terrorism and restore lasting peace. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces for the successful operations, commending their professionalism and determination. He reiterated the government’s resolve to continue the fight against terrorism until the threat is completely eliminated, adding that the nation stands united with the armed forces in defending the country’s security. The operations come amid a renewed surge in terrorist violence, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Just a day earlier, separate attacks in Balochistan claimed the lives of a deputy superintendent of police and two others, while labourers were abducted and several vehicles were set ablaze. International reports have also highlighted the growing security challenge. Recent United Nations assessments noted an increase in attacks by the TTP and BLA, with concerns over improved coordination among militant groups and access to advanced weapons through cross-border networks. Pakistan has continued to intensify intelligence-based operations to curb the escalating threat and dismantle terrorist infrastructure across the country.

  At least three people were killed and four others sustained injuries in a shooting incident near Charsadda Adda in Peshawar, according to local police authorities. The tragic incident, which occurred following a heated domestic dispute, has shocked residents of the area and prompted an immediate police investigation. Police officials stated that the shooting took place after an argument between two groups of relatives escalated into a violent confrontation. What initially began as a disagreement over family matters quickly turned deadly when firearms were used. The exchange of gunfire resulted in the deaths of three individuals at the scene, while four others were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. The condition of the injured has not yet been officially disclosed. Law enforcement authorities responded swiftly after receiving reports of the incident. Police teams reached the crime scene, secured the area, and began collecting evidence. The bodies of the deceased were shifted to a hospital for legal formalities and post-mortem examinations, while investigators interviewed witnesses to determine the exact sequence of events. According to the police, a formal case has been registered at Faqirabad Police Station, and efforts are underway to identify and arrest those responsible for the shooting. Authorities have launched a search operation to locate the suspects, who reportedly fled the scene immediately after the incident. Police officials expressed confidence that those involved would soon be brought to justice. Preliminary investigations indicate that both groups involved in the incident are closely related. Police believe the violence stemmed from a long-standing domestic dispute that escalated beyond control. Although the exact nature of the disagreement has not been officially revealed, investigators are examining all aspects of the family conflict to establish the motive behind the shooting. Family disputes turning violent remain a serious concern in various parts of Pakistan, where disagreements over property, inheritance, financial issues, or personal matters can sometimes escalate into deadly confrontations. Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly urged citizens to resolve conflicts through legal and peaceful means rather than resorting to violence. The incident has created an atmosphere of fear and sadness among local residents, many of whom expressed concern over the increasing use of firearms in personal disputes. Community members have called on authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and to strengthen measures aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future. Police officials emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages and that additional details will be made public as evidence is collected and witness statements are recorded. Authorities are also reviewing forensic evidence from the crime scene to support the investigation. The tragic shooting serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of unresolved family conflicts and the dangers associated with the misuse of weapons. As the investigation continues, the families of the victims await justice, while local authorities remain committed to apprehending the suspects and uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The police have assured the public that every effort is being made to complete the investigation promptly and transparently. Further updates are expected as the search for the accused continues and more information becomes available through the ongoing inquiry.