Security forces eliminated a key terrorist during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Mamitan Khel area of Jani Khel in Bannu, officials said on Tuesday.
According to security sources, the operation was launched after credible intelligence regarding the presence and movement of terrorists in the area. Acting on the tip-off, security personnel cordoned off the locality and engaged the suspected hideout.
During the exchange of fire, security forces effectively targeted the location, killing a terrorist identified as Naeem Wazir alias “Grenade.” His body was taken into custody, while reports indicated that at least one more terrorist sustained injuries during the engagement.
The latest action comes a day after a similar intelligence-based operation in the same Mamitan Khel area, where security forces had engaged terrorist elements following reports of their presence, killing one terrorist and injuring another after a brief firefight. That operation triggered a search and clearance process to eliminate any remaining threats.
Security officials believe both engagements are linked to the same network, with the latest operation targeting residual elements following the earlier contact. Forces subsequently expanded the operational sweep, maintaining pressure on suspected hideouts across the areas.
A search and clearance operation was underway after the latest engagement to ensure the area was fully sanitized and no terrorist presence remained.
Officials said these operations are part of ongoing intelligence-driven efforts under Operation Azm-e-Istehkam and Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and preventing planned attacks against civilians and security personnel across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Meanwhile, following the operation carried out a day earlier, a rally was held in Bannu on April 20, 2026, where participants from different walks of life condemned terrorism and expressed full support for the Pakistan Army and law enforcement agencies. Demonstrators raised slogans against terrorism and pledged unwavering support for state institutions.
This came days after another rally held recently in Bannu, in the district, reflecting continued public mobilization against terrorism and consistent backing for ongoing counterterrorism operations.
Officials noted that such sustained public response strengthens national resolve and reinforces the momentum of security operations in the region.
