n a significant success against militancy, the District Police Karak, in close coordination with District Police Kohat, conducted a successful Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) during the early hours of 10 July 2026, resulting in the elimination of four high-value Khawarij belonging to the notorious Commander Zahid Group.
The operation was launched at approximately 0500 hours following the receipt of credible and actionable intelligence regarding the presence of armed Khawarij in the Khattak Dam area, situated along the Karak–Kohat border. Acting promptly on the intelligence, joint police contingents from Karak and Kohat strategically moved into the area to intercept and neutralize the threat.
As the police teams approached the suspected hideout, the Khawarij opened indiscriminate fire on the advancing personnel in an attempt to evade capture. Demonstrating exceptional courage, professionalism, and tactical discipline, the police responded with a swift and effective counter-assault. Following an intense exchange of fire, four Khawarij affiliated with the Commander Zahid Group were successfully neutralized.
The eliminated Khawarij are believed to have been directly involved in several heinous attacks targeting law enforcement personnel. According to preliminary investigations, the group was responsible for the martyrdom of SHO Banda Umar Nawaz of District Karak and Inspector Tahir Nawaz of District Kohat in 2025. The same network is also implicated in the 2026 martyrdom of DSP Asad Mahmood, Sub-Inspector Anar Gul, and other brave police officers and personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty while defending the peace and security of the region.
Immediately after the successful engagement, police forces cordoned off the entire area and initiated a comprehensive search and clearance operation to ensure that no accomplices remained concealed in the vicinity. The search operation is continuing, while efforts are underway to establish the identities of the deceased Khawarij and compile detailed information regarding their criminal backgrounds, affiliations, and involvement in previous acts of violence.
Upon receiving information about the operation, the District Police Officer (DPO) Karak and SP Saddar Kohat, Mr. Ehsan Shah, promptly reached the operational site to supervise the ongoing search and post-operation activities. Senior police leadership commended the professionalism, coordination, and bravery displayed by the participating officers and personnel throughout the operation.
This successful operation underscores the unwavering commitment of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police to dismantling violent extremist networks and safeguarding the lives and property of citizens. The close coordination between Karak and Kohat Police demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and inter-district operational cooperation in countering security threats.
District Police Karak reiterates its firm resolve to eliminate the menace of the Khawarij and maintain lasting peace across the region. The police remain fully committed to pursuing Khawarij, their facilitators, and all anti-state elements without compromise. Intelligence-based operations, targeted actions, and coordinated security measures will continue with full determination to ensure that those who threaten public peace and national security are brought to justice.
The sacrifices rendered by the martyrs of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police continue to inspire the force’s unwavering dedication to protecting the people of Pakistan. Their courage and supreme sacrifice will always be remembered, and operations against the Khawarij and other anti-state elements will persist until enduring peace and stability are restored throughout the province.
