Significant developments have emerged in the ongoing investigation into the deadly militant assault on the Fatah Khel police post in Bannu, as Pakistani security and intelligence agencies uncovered critical evidence and intensified operations against those involved in the attack.
According to an official statement issued by the Office of the Regional Police Officer (RPO) Bannu, a total of 12 militants belonging to the banned extremist faction referred to as “Fitna al-Khawarij” were killed during the immediate retaliatory response by police personnel following the suicide assault on the checkpoint. Authorities stated that the bodies of the slain attackers were later removed from the scene by their accomplices.
The investigation has since led to a series of successful intelligence-based operations (IBOs), resulting in the elimination of five additional militants linked to the attack network. Among those killed were identified terrorists Hayatullah, son of Khan Gul, accused of preparing the suicide vehicle used in the attack, and Maulana Saddam, son of Shapool, a resident of Sam Toi area in Shakai tehsil of South Waziristan.
Officials revealed that preliminary findings indicate the attackers initiated the assault using explosive materials before attempting to storm the police post. Despite sustaining injuries, officers stationed at the checkpoint responded immediately with what authorities described as a courageous and highly effective counterattack.
Police sources stated that reports of multiple militant casualties during the intense exchange of fire are now being corroborated through the ongoing investigation process.
The statement particularly praised the bravery of injured officers Head Constable Feroz Khan, Constable Hayatullah, and Constable Fidaullah, who reportedly continued fighting despite severe injuries and resisted the attackers until the final moments of the encounter.
Investigators further disclosed that four of the slain militants were buried in the Shakai area of South Waziristan, while two others were reportedly buried in Wazir subdivision Khani Khel in Bannu district. Intelligence agencies, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and other investigative bodies are continuing efforts to identify additional militants involved in the attack and locate their possible burial sites and support networks.
Authorities confirmed that Hayatullah the militant allegedly responsible for preparing the suicide vehicle was considered a close associate of the attack’s alleged mastermind, identified as Zargul alias “Uncle.”
Subsequent operations carried out by security forces led to the elimination of four more militants, bringing the total number of extremists killed in related police and intelligence operations to 17.
District Police Officer (DPO) Bannu, Yaseer Afridi, paid tribute to the wounded officers and commended their extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment in confronting the attackers. He stated that the personnel of Bannu Police remain “a wall of steel” against terrorism and continue to stand at the forefront of efforts to maintain peace and security in the region.
DIG Bannu Region Sajjad Khan also praised the sacrifices made by the officers, describing them as a source of pride for the entire force. He reaffirmed the commitment of law enforcement agencies to ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property at all costs.
“Every possible sacrifice will be made to maintain peace,” the senior official stated, adding that operations against militant and anti-state elements would continue with full force and professional resolve.
The attack and subsequent operations underscore the persistent security challenges faced by Pakistan’s northwestern regions, particularly areas bordering former tribal districts, where militant activity has witnessed periodic resurgence in recent years.
Security analysts note that the swift intelligence-led response and follow-up operations demonstrate increasing coordination among Pakistani law enforcement and counterterrorism agencies in targeting militant infrastructure and preventing further attacks.
Authorities have vowed to continue nationwide counterterrorism efforts aimed at dismantling extremist networks and ensuring long-term stability across affected regions.
