Operation Zarb-e-Azb has moved to last few pockets near Pak-Afghan border and 2,763 terrorists killed, 837 hideouts destroyed and 253 tons of explosives recovered during the last one year of the operation. In a statement, ISPR says that significant achievements have been made in Fata especially in North Waziristan and Khyber Agencies. Terrorists' communication, infrastructure and sanctuaries have largely been cleared.
It says 9,000 intelligence-based operations were carried out, apprehending thousands of terrorists and their abettors. 218 hard core terrorists were killed in cities, it said, adding as many as 18,087 weapons including machine-guns, light machine guns, sniper rifles, rocket launchers, and AK-47s were seized from terrorist hideouts in North Waziristan alone.
During the operation, 347 officers and soldiers embraced martyrdom. The military leadership has reiterated that Zarb-e-Azb will continue until Pakistan will be free from terrorists. The statement further noted that the operation has positive impact on the country's economy. It stated that Chinese President and other dignitaries' visit to Pakistan, Pak-Zimb cricket match and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor are positive development of the military operation.
"The whole nation joined hand to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country...the national media, civil society are also playing an important role ti root out the menace once for all," it added. Finance Ministry Ishaq Dar has so far provided Rs 33 billion for this whole operation including requirements of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in wake of the military operation against Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militants. The Finance Ministry has reportedly made an allocation of $750 million (approximately Rs 75 billion) as special development package for Pakistan army. Four Russian made Mi-35 Assault helicopters and other military equipment would be purchased out from special development package which will be used in one going military operation, said defence sources.
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