KARACHI: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa visited troops taking part in consolidation operations along the Pakistan-Afghan border in the Dawatoi sector of North Waziristan tribal district.

Recent consolidation operations along the Pak-Afghan border ensured effective area domination of some inaccessible pockets of land, which had been sporadically used by terrorists as hideouts to target local populace and security apparatus.

More than 90 improvised explosive devices were recovered during the course of operations. Fencing of this arduous stretch of border terrain will commence shortly. Security forces have active control of North Waziristan, the last remaining stretch of the international border. This will further enhance security of public in both North and South Waziristan and strengthen checks over illegal crossing at the Pak-Afghan border.

The COAS was also briefed on complementing border security/management measures particularly progress of fencing along the complete Pak-Afghan border.

While interacting with troops, the COAS appreciated their remarkable operational performance and high state of morale.

The COAS said that the country was committed to peace and stability. For this, he said, Pakistan was playing its part by solidifying border security and capacity enhancement of Frontier Constabulary/law enforcement agencies.

Appreciating tribal people for their unflinching support in fighting terrorism, the COAS said that peace had largely returned to the region. However, he added, it would take collective efforts of the local population, civil administration and LEAs to retain the hard earned normalcy.

“We have to remain vigilant and steadfast to thwart hostile attempts to create chaos and reverse the gains of Operation Raddul Fasaad,” the COAS said.

Later, the COAS also visited Miramshah.

Earlier on his arrival, the COAS was received by Peshawar Corps Comm­and­er Lt Gen Nauman Mahmood.

Published in Dawn, August 25th, 2020