Peshawar: At least 17 militants, including three key commanders, were killed in a series of successful operations conducted by police, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), and security forces across the Bannu region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, security officials said on Friday.
According to security sources, coordinated operations were carried out in various areas of Bannu by local police, CTD, Quick Response Force, and other security units. Seventeen militants were killed and several others wounded, while all personnel involved in the operations remained unharmed. A large cache of weapons and ammunition was recovered, dealing a major blow to the local network of the outlawed militant group.
In the Shiri Khel and Pakka Pahar Khel areas, the presence of militant groups prompted a joint operation by Lakki police, CTD Bannu, and security forces. Ten militants were killed and five injured, while one facilitator was arrested. Seven bodies were recovered, while three remained inaccessible due to difficult mountainous terrain.
Among the dead militants were two most-wanted commanders, Niaz Ali alias Akasha and Abdullah alias Shipankoi, who were facing multiple cases and were considered high-value targets by law enforcement agencies.
In a separate action in Nasar Khel, a joint operation by Lakki police, CTD, and local peace committee members resulted in the killing of another wanted militant. Residents of the area reportedly expressed confidence in law enforcement and pledged support against militant elements.
Meanwhile, in the Hwaid area of Bannu, police and peace committee members engaged militants in a gun battle, forcing the attackers to flee.
In yet another major operation in Domail, militants opened fire on a police patrol. Reinforcements from Bannu police, CTD, and security forces launched an eight-hour operation, killing six militants and injuring dozens. The operation also led to the elimination of the notorious commander Rasool alias Commander Ariana, along with his associates, and the recovery of weapons and ammunition.
Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Zulfiqar Hameed lauded the Bannu region police, CTD, and security forces for the successful operations. He said the province would be “cleansed of militant elements,” adding that law enforcement would pursue terrorists “to their hidden safe havens.”
