In a swift and precise operation, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Peshawar, supported by local police, neutralized three terrorists belonging to the banned militant group Fitna al-Khawarij (FAKs) in PDA Regi Lalma on the night of October 14, 2025.
The gang had been under constant surveillance, with investigators tracking their movements through technical surveillance. The CTD had been monitoring their activities, which indicated that they were preparing to execute a terrorist attack in the border region of District Khyber–Peshawar. Acting on this intelligence, the CTD SWAT team moved in to intercept them.
As the militants attempted to escape, they opened indiscriminate fire, prompting a rapid and accurate response from the CTD forces. The ensuing firefight led to the death of three militants on the spot. The search for any surviving accomplices continues, with security forces tightening their grip on the area.
One of the killed militants, identified as Abdullah alias Jawad, was an Afghan national, with an Afghan citizenship card recovered from his possession. He was a wanted fugitive in CTD Peshawar’s FIR No. 92/2025. The identities of the other two militants are still being confirmed.
The operation yielded a significant haul of weapons and materials, including:
1 M4 Rifle
1 M16 Rifle
1 SMG
1 IED (approximately 2.5 kg)
1 Hand Grenade
4 Smartphones
125 rounds of ammunition (of different calibres) & 6 magazines
Initial investigations have confirmed that this gang was involved in at least 18 terror incidents across the district, including:
Attacks on Police Posts Arandu and Pajjagi, resulting in the martyrdom of multiple police officials.
A fire raid on PP Shahab Khel, which led to the deaths of DSP Sardar Hussain and two other officers.
Attacks on various police posts, including Shamshato, Speen Qabar in Bara, and Subhan Sher Khwar CP, leading to the martyrdom and injuries of several law enforcement personnel.
A deadly ambush on a police mobile at Daag Lara, resulting in the martyrdom of three officers.
Numerous IED blasts targeting police establishments and public infrastructure.
The militants were reportedly part of a TTP-linked cell, operating under foreign-based, foreign-funded handlers, with plans to escalate attacks against security forces, public infrastructure, and pro-state individuals in the region.
CTD Peshawar’s operation underscores the department’s ongoing commitment to combating militancy and securing peace in the region. The operation also highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration and operational efficiency in safeguarding civilians and law enforcement personnel from such threats.
