Security forces have shot down eight drones after they entered Pakistani airspace from Afghanistan, the 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Wednesday.
The sources said four of the drones were brought down in areas adjoining the Torkham border, while the remaining four were intercepted in mountainous areas near the border with Kohat.
According to the security sources, Pakistan’s air defence system detected and engaged all eight drones. They said the armed forces and Pakistan Air Force personnel had foiled what they described as an attempt to target public places.
The sources further alleged that the reported incursion was another indication of direct support for militant groups by the Afghan Taliban administration.
The development comes amid heightened tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
The security forces had also foiled an attempt by militants to cross into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram district from Afghanistan last night, according to security officials. The militants were reported to have attempted the crossing from Nangarhar and Paktia.
Following the failed infiltration attempt, Afghan Taliban forces reportedly opened fire on Pakistani border posts.
Pakistani troops responded by targeting several Afghan Taliban border posts and defensive positions, according to security sources. Several Afghan Taliban personnel were reported to have fled their positions following the response.
Security forces have said they are maintaining close surveillance of the border and remain prepared to respond to any further security threat.
The latest developments follow Pakistan’s recent military operations against militant targets in the border region with Afghanistan.
Pakistan’s information ministry said on September 21 that more than 28 militants had been killed in air strikes and ground operations targeting militant sites.
A day earlier, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited Corps Headquarters Peshawar.
The Field Marshal was briefed on the prevailing security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, ongoing counter-terrorism operations, border management measures, and operational preparedness of formations deployed in the province.
Reporter: Ahmad Mansoor