A large-scale counterterrorism operation in Bannu District has entered its final phase after security forces carried out days of sustained intelligence-based and targeted operations against Khawarij across multiple locations, with security sources claiming that 50 Khawarij have been killed during the ongoing campaign.
According to security sources, the operation has focused on dismantling Khawarij networks operating in Bakakhel, Meryan, Jani Khel, and several adjoining areas of the district. The offensive, launched on the basis of intelligence inputs, has involved coordinated actions by security forces and law enforcement agencies aimed at eliminating Khawarij hideouts, disrupting their operational infrastructure, and preventing future attacks.
Security officials claim that the operation has so far resulted in the killing of 50 Khawarij, representing one of the most significant reported counterterrorism successes in the region in recent months. While the reported figure has not yet been independently verified, officials say the operation has inflicted substantial losses on Khawarij elements active in the area.
Alongside the reported Khawarij casualties, several suspects have been taken into custody during the operation. Authorities said those detained are being questioned as investigations continue to determine their identities, affiliations, and any possible links to Khawarij networks operating in the district.
Throughout the operation, security forces conducted extensive search-and-clearance operations across affected areas. Multiple checkpoints and security cordons were established to restrict the movement of Khawarij, secure strategic locations, and prevent any remaining suspects from escaping the operational zone. Officials said these measures were designed to ensure that Khawarij could not regroup or relocate during the ongoing offensive.
As part of the operation, mobile phone and internet services were suspended for nearly ten days in Bakakhel Tehsil, Meryan Tehsil, and several surrounding areas. Authorities said the temporary communications blackout was implemented as a precautionary measure to prevent Khawarij from exploiting communication networks, protect civilians, safeguard sensitive operational information, and facilitate the uninterrupted execution of the security operation.
Following significant progress in the operation, authorities have now restored mobile and internet services across the affected areas, allowing normal communication to resume. Residents have gradually returned to their daily routines as security restrictions were eased.
Despite the reported operational gains, officials have not yet released a comprehensive statement detailing the identities of the Khawarij killed, the quantity of weapons or equipment recovered, or the full scope of the operation. Security sources, however, maintain that the offensive remains active in its final phase and that surveillance and follow-up operations will continue to eliminate any remaining Khawarij presence.
The ongoing campaign underscores the continued reliance on intelligence-led counterterrorism operations to dismantle Khawarij networks in Bannu and surrounding areas. Security officials say forces remain on high alert and will continue monitoring the district to consolidate operational gains, prevent the re-eme
