Security forces eliminated 15 terrorists, including two high-value commanders belonging to the banned Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group, during a series of intelligence-based operations in different areas of Bannu district, security sources said on Friday.
According to the sources, the operations were conducted in Janikhel, Hindikhel and Sayi Dargah after security forces received credible intelligence regarding the presence and movement of terrorists affiliated with the Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group.
The sources said the terrorists offered armed resistance after security forces surrounded their hideouts, triggering intense exchanges of fire at multiple locations. Following the operations, 15 terrorists were eliminated, including two senior commanders described as high-value targets who were allegedly involved in planning and directing terrorist activities in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The eliminated commanders were said to have played a key role in coordinating attacks against security forces and facilitating the movement of terrorists between Bannu and adjoining tribal districts.
A cache of weapons, ammunition, communication equipment and other operational material was recovered from the hideouts during subsequent search and clearance operations. Security personnel also seized explosives and materials believed to have been intended for use in future terrorist attacks.
According to security sources, the eliminated terrorists were involved in multiple attacks on security forces, targeted killings, extortion and intimidation of local communities. Some of them were also reportedly wanted by law enforcement agencies in connection with acts of terrorism.
The operations form part of the ongoing campaign to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and deny banned groups the ability to regroup in Bannu and surrounding areas.
Security forces have intensified intelligence-based operations across southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in recent months following attempts by terrorist groups to re-establish operational networks in the region.
Sources said sanitisation operations were continuing in and around the targeted areas to ensure that no terrorist remained at large and to eliminate any remaining hideouts or logistical support networks.
They reiterated that security forces remain committed to eliminating terrorism and maintaining peace, adding that operations against terrorist groups would continue until the complete restoration of lasting security in the region.
