RAWALPINDI: General Raheel Sharif, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) visited forward most locations close to the Pak - Afghan Border in North Waziristan Agency (NWA) today.

The COAS was briefed in detail by the formation commander about the progress of Operation Zarb-e-Azb and future plans to clear the remaining pockets of terrorists in Shawal Area. 

Later, he talked to fighting troops who have just successfully completed the preliminary phase of Shawal operation and cleared all peaks around Shawal, COAS commended their professionalism and sacrifices.

“It's a matter of great privilege and honor to be commanding such an accomplished and battle hardened Army,” the COAS re-emphasized.

Appreciating special integrated teams which have carried out Intelligence Based Operations (IBOs) across urban areas of Pakistan and severed links between terrorist’s sanctuaries in remote areas and their sleeper cells in cities, he directed all concerned to continue these operations to apprehend all terrorists, their facilitators, abettors and financiers from anywhere across the country without any discrimination and irrespective of the cost.

"We will not stop unless we achieve our end objective of a terror free Pakistan."

The COAS also visited WANA, South Waziristan Agency (SWA) where he was briefed on the ongoing rehabilitation work, and its effects on the social landscape of area, particularly the relief that they bring to all residents of these regions.