A major security crisis was averted in Hangu after coordinated action by police and counter-terrorism units successfully foiled an infiltration attempt involving more than 100 militants, officials confirmed on Sunday.
According to police authorities, the attackers linked to “Fitna al-Khawarij” attempted to enter the area in a large-scale offensive but were intercepted through a swift and coordinated response involving police, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and other security agencies.
Officials said the operation quickly escalated into intense exchanges as militants tried to advance toward populated zones. Security forces responded effectively, forcing the attackers to retreat and abandon their positions.
Authorities confirmed that militants fired mortar shells during the confrontation, which landed in residential areas, resulting in the martyrdom of six civilians and injuring 13 others. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to provide medical assistance to the wounded.
Police further stated that after sustaining losses, the militants attempted to evacuate their dead and injured companions from the area while retreating under pressure from security forces.
Following hours of clearance operations in surrounding mountainous terrain, officials declared the area fully secured. Schools, civilian properties, and nearby high-ground zones were thoroughly checked and cleared to prevent any remaining threats.
Security officials described the operation as a significant success in preventing a potentially large-scale breach and reaffirmed that intelligence-led actions would continue to target militant networks attempting to destabilize the region.
The incident has once again highlighted ongoing security challenges in the region, while also underscoring the rapid response capabilities of law enforcement agencies operating in high-risk areas.

