Five civilians were injured after Fitna al-Khawarij launched a mortar attack targeting a civilian-populated area in the Dori Banda locality of Zargari, Hangu district. According to initial reports, the mortar shell fired by the Khawarij landed in a civilian market near a petrol pump in Dori Banda village, causing panic and injuring five unarmed civilians present in the area.
DSP Amjad Hussain confirmed that the projectile struck near a commercial area frequented by local residents, resulting in multiple injuries. The wounded individuals were immediately shifted to nearby medical facilities, where they are receiving treatment.
Security officials strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act deliberately targeting innocent civilians after terrorist elements failed to confront police and security forces directly.
Authorities stated that a joint operation involving police and security forces was immediately launched in the surrounding area to track down and neutralize the attackers. The operation remains ongoing, with additional contingents deployed to secure nearby localities and prevent further threats.
Officials noted that the incident reflects a disturbing pattern in which Khawarij elements increasingly resort to attacking civilian populations, public spaces, and economic activity in an attempt to spread fear and instability after suffering setbacks against state forces.
“The targeting of ordinary citizens clearly exposes the criminal and anti-state nature of these terrorist elements,” officials said, adding that such attacks demonstrate hostility not only toward the state but also toward peace, public safety, and the livelihoods of local communities.
Authorities further emphasized that tactics involving extortion, intimidation, and indiscriminate violence reveal the broader agenda of terrorist networks seeking to destabilize society through fear and coercion.
Security officials reaffirmed that such acts would not weaken the resolve of Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies, security institutions, or the public. Instead, they stated, operations against terrorist elements would continue with full force and determination until the complete elimination of Fitna al-Khawarij is achieved.
Local residents and community representatives also condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the injured civilians and support for ongoing security operations in the region.
