Security forces foiled a cowardly attack by Khawarij in Jani Khel subdivision of Bannu during Operation Azm-i-Istehkam III, killing four and injuring five in a timely and precise response. According to official reports, a group of Khawarij attempted to storm security check-posts in the Mamtan Khel. Alert troops, including sharpshooters Havildar Naseer, Sepoy Hanzala, and Sepoy Imran, immediately engaged the attackers, killing four on the spot while five others sustained injuries before fleeing the area.
At first light, security forces launched a clearance operation, recovering the bodies of two Khawarij along with their weapons and explosive material. One of the slain has been identified as Juma Gul, whose body was shifted to Jani Khel for legal formalities.
Officials said that combing and clearance operations are continuing in the area to trace those who escaped. At the same time, local elders are expected to convene a jirga with security officials to strengthen the peace process and prevent the Khawarij from regaining ground.
The operation is being seen as a major blow to the Khawarij network, which has been attempting to destabilise southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through sporadic attacks. Security forces reiterated that the sacrifices of soldiers and the support of local communities remain key to defeating the menace once and for all.
