Security forces carried out a targeted operation against the Khawarij in Upper Dir, killing five of them who had recently attacked a police party, while a civilian was martyred and eight policemen sustained minor injuries. A spokesperson for the Central Police Office (CPO) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said the intelligence-based operation was launched following confirmed reports about the presence of Khawarij in the area. He added that the group had been involved in a recent assault on police personnel. During the exchange of fire, five Khawarij were killed, with one body recovered from the site, while efforts are under way to trace the remaining elements. Security forces have cordoned off the area, and a search operation is continuing to ensure clearance.
The spokesperson said the sacrifices of the police and civilians demonstrated the resilience of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa against the Khawarij. “One civilian embraced martyrdom while eight police officials sustained minor injuries during the operation. Our forces have shown exceptional courage in the line of duty,” he noted.
Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa praised the officers and personnel for their bravery, stressing that the fight against the Khawarij would continue with full resolve. He said targeted operations were being conducted in the Upper Dir localities of Dobando, Birkot, Salam Kot, and Atandra to track down remaining elements. “Our men have proved their commitment to safeguarding the people, and these sacrifices will not go in vain,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, the funeral prayers of the martyred civilian, who lost his life to the firing of the Khawarij, were offered with full respect at the Police Lines. Officials, colleagues, and locals attended the funeral, paying rich tributes to the sacrifice in the fight against extremism.
