Pakistan Downs Eight Drones from Afghan Territory, Says Security Sources

Security sources reported on Wednesday that Pakistan's armed forces shot down eight drones after they crossed into the country from Afghanistan. The air defence system, operated by the Pakistan Air Force and deployed along the Pak-Afghan border, detected and intercepted all eight drones, according to the officials.

Four of the drones were brought down near the Torkham border, while the other four were targeted in mountainous areas close to Kohat. The sources stated that the wreckage of the downed drones was being recovered and secured by Pakistani authorities.

The officials described the drone incursion as evidence of the Afghan Taliban regime's direct support for terrorist groups, calling it a 'cowardly attempt' that was thwarted by the armed forces.

In a separate incident, security forces reportedly prevented an infiltration attempt by militants identified as Fitna al-Khawarij. According to the sources, the attempt originated from Afghanistan under supervision of the Afghan Taliban from posts in Nangarhar and Paktia provinces. Pakistani troops responded, forcing the militants to retreat.

Following this failed infiltration, the sources allege, the Afghan Taliban opened unprovoked fire on Pakistani border posts using heavy weapons, mortars, and other arms. Pakistani forces responded by targeting multiple Taliban positions along the border with both light and heavy weapons, including artillery.

These incidents follow a recent intelligence-based ground operation and airstrikes by Pakistan targeting militant hideouts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as confirmed by the Ministry of Information on Monday. The ministry stated that the actions were taken after several terrorist attacks, including deadly incidents in Kohat. According to the ministry, the operation and subsequent strikes killed at least 28 militants and destroyed multiple targets, including a suicide bomber training centre.