Security forces on Thursday carried out a precise and intelligence-driven operation in the Mandati Neka locality of Bannu’s Havid area, killing two Khawarij operatives shortly after they destroyed a vital bridge linking nearby villages. Acting on credible intelligence regarding the presence of Khawarij elements in the area, security forces deployed a quadcopter to execute a high-precision strike. Two armed Khawarij were successfully neutralized in the operation, which was part of a broader counterterrorism effort to prevent further acts of sabotage and restore stability in the region.
Earlier in the day, the same group of Khawarij had used an improvised explosive device (IED) to blow up a key connecting bridge in the Havid area, severing crucial access routes and causing serious disruption to civilian life. The destruction of the bridge isolated communities, obstructed essential movement, and forced residents onto unsafe, unpaved detours.
Security personnel have since cordoned off the area and launched a follow-up search and clearance operation to track down any remaining elements linked to the Khawarij network in the region. Authorities confirmed that the operation was part of an ongoing offensive to dismantle sleeper cells and prevent the re-emergence of violent extremist activity in the tribal belt.
The timely action has been widely welcomed by local residents, who have called for continued operations against hostile elements operating in the shadows. Community elders urged the government to permanently secure vital infrastructure and accelerate development in terrorism-affected areas.
This latest action highlights the enduring threat posed by remnants of outlawed outfits and reaffirms the determination of Pakistan’s security institutions to protect hard-won peace through proactive and lethal precision when required.
