In a successful joint intelligence-based operation, Bannu District Police, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Quick Response Force (QRF) and Security Forces conducted a coordinated operation in the Merian area of Bannu, resulting in the killing of one unidentified Khawarij and the detention of several other suspects.
The operation was carried out in the villages of Khani Khel, Barkzai and surrounding areas, falling within the jurisdiction of Merian Police Station, as part of intensified efforts to eliminate the threat posed by Khawarij and maintain law and order in the district.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of District Police Officer (DPO) Bannu, Captain (Retd.) Muhammad Furqan Bilal, in coordination with SP CTD Bannu Fazal Wahid Khan, district police personnel, CTD Special Weapons and Tactics teams, the Quick Response Force and Security Forces.
During the intelligence-based operation, law-enforcement personnel engaged Khawarij in an exchange of fire. As a result, one unidentified Khawarij was killed. The deceased’s body has been taken into custody, and the process of identification is currently underway. Authorities are working to establish the identity and other relevant details of the deceased.
Following the operation, security personnel recovered weapons and ammunition from the possession of the deceased Khawarij. The recovered items included:
- One Kalashnikov
- Three magazines
- One bandolier
The recovery of the weapon and ammunition will assist investigators in determining the activities and possible affiliations of the deceased. Search and targeted raid operations continued in the surrounding areas following the exchange of fire.
During these operations, several suspects were detained for questioning. The detained individuals are being subjected to further investigation to determine whether they have any links with Khawarij networks, terrorist activities or other criminal activity. Authorities have stated that the investigation will proceed in accordance with established legal procedures and that further developments will be shared as the inquiry progresses.
The joint operation was conducted in accordance with the directives of Inspector General of Police, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed, aimed at eliminating the threat of Khawarij and ensuring peace and security across the province. The operation demonstrates continued coordination between the district police, CTD, specialized tactical teams, QRF and Security Forces in responding to intelligence regarding Khawarij presence and activity. The authorities have reiterated that intelligence-based operations remain a key component of their strategy to identify and neutralize threats before they can endanger the lives and property of citizens.
