The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has achieved another significant success in its ongoing campaign against terrorism. In a successful intelligence-based operation (IBO) conducted by CTD Mardan, three high-profile terrorists affiliated with the outlawed Fitna Al-Khawarij network were neutralized during a fierce exchange of fire in the Shabqadar area of District Charsadda.
According to details, CTD Mardan received credible intelligence indicating that a group of terrorists linked to Fitna Al-Khawarij was attempting to infiltrate District Charsadda from District Mohmand with the intention of carrying out subversive and terrorist activities. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, CTD teams established an ambush and strategically deployed personnel in the identified area to intercept and apprehend the terrorists.
Upon being challenged and ordered to surrender, the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on CTD personnel instead of submitting to arrest. CTD officers responded with professionalism, courage, and determination, leading to an intense exchange of fire that continued for a considerable period.
Following the cessation of firing, a comprehensive search and clearance operation was conducted at the site, during which three terrorists were found dead. The deceased terrorists were identified as:
- Hayat Khan alias Hayatullah son of Jan Khan
- Asim son of Muhammad Younas
- Aminullah alias Muawiya alias Qari son of Abdul Karim
Preliminary investigations reveal that the slain terrorists were wanted by CTD in multiple terrorism-related cases and acts of targeted violence.
Hayat Khan alias Hayatullah was a proclaimed offender and was actively wanted in the high-profile targeted killing case of Maulana Izzatullah. He had remained involved in terrorist activities aimed at undermining peace and stability in the region.
Asim, another key terrorist neutralized during the operation, was reportedly involved in several targeted attacks against police personnel and religious leaders in District Khyber. His activities posed a serious threat to public safety and law enforcement efforts.
During the operation, CTD personnel recovered three Kalashnikov rifles with magazines and hand grenades from the possession of the terrorists. The recovered weapons and explosives have been taken into custody for forensic examination and further investigation.
Several accomplices managed to flee the scene under the cover of darkness and crossfire. In response, CTD, in close coordination with the district police, has launched a joint search and combing operation in the surrounding areas to locate and apprehend the remaining suspects. Efforts are ongoing, and further developments will be shared as investigations progress.
Appreciating the successful operation, the Additional Inspector General of Police, CTD Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, commended the officers and personnel of CTD Mardan for their exceptional professionalism, bravery, and operational excellence. He stated that the morale of CTD personnel remains high and that they continue to stand as a strong and unwavering shield against forces seeking to destabilize the state.
“The sacrifices and dedication of our officers reflect their unwavering commitment to protecting the lives of citizens and upholding the writ of the state. Every police officer is prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty to ensure peace and security for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he said.
The Additional IG CTD reaffirmed that the department’s resolve to eliminate terrorism in all its forms remains firm and uncompromising. He emphasized that intelligence-led operations against anti-state elements will continue with greater intensity until all threats to public peace and national security are completely neutralized.
CTD Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens and will continue to pursue terrorists, their facilitators, and supporters with full force of the law.
