At least eight terrorists were killed during a large-scale police operation conducted in the mountainous border region between Kohat and Karak districts, police officials confirmed on Saturday.
According to Regional Police Officer (RPO) Kohat, Abbas Majeed Marwat, the operation was launched after intelligence reports indicated the presence of armed terrorists in the rugged hills of the Karkando area, falling under the jurisdiction of Khurram Police Station. Heavy police contingents, supported by intelligence agencies, moved in to encircle the area.
RPO Marwat said that the operation is being carried out under his direct supervision, with District Police Officer (DPO) Karak Saud Khan also present at the site, leading forces on the ground. A fierce exchange of fire erupted as security personnel advanced toward terrorist hideouts concealed in the mountainous terrain.
During the operation, multiple terrorist hideouts were destroyed, significantly degrading the group’s operational capability. Police officials reported that, in addition to those killed, several terrorists were wounded, although an exact number could not be confirmed due to the difficult terrain.
Authorities said the bodies of the slain terrorists remain in the hilly area, as their accomplices attempted to retrieve them by opening fire on police positions. Security forces responded effectively, maintaining control of the area while continuing the operation.
Police officials confirmed that the gunbattle is ongoing, with forces exercising extreme caution to prevent escape routes through the mountainous landscape. Additional reinforcements have been deployed to secure surrounding areas and prevent further movement by terrorist elements.
The operation marks a significant blow against militant activity in the Kohat–Karak border belt, an area that has previously been exploited by terrorist groups due to its difficult geography. Police leadership reaffirmed their resolve to continue counterterrorism operations until all threats in the region are neutralized.
