Lakki Marwat, June 9, 2025: A police operation in Lakki Marwat’s Kot Kashmir turned deadly on Wednesday as three terrorists, including a local commander, were killed in a fierce gun battle. A police officer, Shahidullah Gundi Khankhel, was critically injured during the exchange and later succumbed to his wounds, officials confirmed.
The encounter underscores the escalating militant threat in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Lakki Marwat district, where terrorist activity has surged despite efforts by police and local peace committees to maintain order.
According to Lakki Marwat police spokesperson Shahid Marwat, the operation targeted operatives of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), locally referred to as Fitna Al-Khawarij.
“In the exchange of fire, three Khawarij, including a key local terrorist — Commander Chhota Waseem Gundi Khankhel — were neutralised,” the statement said.
The operation was launched based on intelligence indicating the movement of militants from Gundi toward Kot Kashmir. Police and peace committee members pursued the suspects, leading to a confrontation in which one terrorist was killed on the spot.
The remaining two militants fled into a nearby home, attempting to use women and children as human shields. Police cordoned off the area and safely evacuated the civilians. A two-hour standoff ensued, ending with the deaths of both militants.
Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the scene. Commander Chhota Waseem, a notorious militant wanted for numerous attacks in the region, was among the dead. Authorities are still working to confirm the identities of the other two slain militants.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed commended the courage and professionalism displayed by the police during the operation.
“This operation reflects the bravery of our officers and the resolve of the people of Lakki Marwat, who stand united against terrorism,” he said. Hameed also announced cash rewards and commendation certificates for the team involved.
The incident is the latest in a string of recent clashes in Lakki Marwat. In April, a gun battle erupted in the Begukhel area following the killing of an elderly man. Last month, police and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) commandos carried out a joint operation targeting militants in rural parts of the district.
