Notwithstanding the mounting pressure from police and local resistance, Khawarij have once again resorted to their old, reprehensible tactic; taking shelter among civilians in nearby villages to evade justice, obstruct targeted operations, and, if possible, exploit collateral damage for propaganda.
This development follows a fierce gun battle in Ayaz Kalay, within Mamandkhel area of Bannu Cantonment, where Khawarij affiliated with the banned outfit faced off with security forces and brave local residents. The firefight lasted over an hour.
During the exchange, Malik Laiq Khan, brother of martyred ANP leader Israel Khan Wazir, was seriously injured and moved to hospital.
District Police Officer Saleem Abbas Kalachi personally oversaw the operation, which saw extraordinary local support. The joint pressure by civilians and law enforcement forced the Khawarij to flee, but instead of escaping the area, they infiltrated a nearby village, putting innocent lives at risk.
Security officials now believe the Khawarij intend to use the village population as cover, not only to delay their elimination but also to set the stage for potential propaganda, particularly if civilian harm occurs during follow-up operations.
A full-scale search and cordon operation is now underway. The area remains sealed, with intelligence units working to locate the Khawarij’s exact positions while minimising any risk to non-combatants.
Authorities have reiterated that the use of civilians as human shields will not deter the operation, and every effort is being made to ensure precision and protection of innocent lives.
