BANNU: A major intelligence-based operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu district turned into a fierce gun battle after security forces confronted suspected militants, leaving at least eight militants dead and a police official martyred, authorities confirmed on Saturday.
According to police officials, the joint operation was carried out by police and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) personnel in the Miryan police station area after authorities received intelligence regarding the presence of militants in the locality.
Officials said that as security personnel moved in to conduct the raid, militants opened fire, triggering an intense exchange of gunfire. During the clash, eight suspected militants were killed while several others sustained injuries and reportedly managed to flee the scene.
A police official embraced martyrdom during the operation, while another officer was injured in the crossfire. The wounded official was shifted for medical treatment, police sources said.
The City Police Officer (CPO) stated that security forces immediately cordoned off the entire area following the operation and launched a comprehensive search operation to eliminate any remaining threats and track down injured militants who escaped.
Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed, praised the police and CTD teams for successfully carrying out the operation under difficult circumstances. He described the raid as a significant success in the ongoing campaign against militancy in the province.
The IGP reiterated that law enforcement agencies would continue taking strict action against militant groups and warned that every attack by hostile elements would receive a strong response.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed a surge in militant activity in recent months, particularly in southern districts including Bannu, Lakki Marwat, and Dera Ismail Khan, where security forces have intensified intelligence-based operations to curb terrorism and improve regional security.
Authorities also announced rewards for the police personnel involved in the operation in recognition of their bravery and performance during the high-risk mission.
About The Author
