Security forces conducted a targeted operation in Dera Ismail Khan on the basis of verified intelligence, killing a militant linked to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also known as Fitna al-Khwarij, after an exchange of fire, while several of his accomplices managed to escape, officials said.
According to security sources, the operation was launched in response to a series of attacks targeting police and security personnel in the region. Acting on actionable intelligence, joint teams moved into the area and attempted to cordon off suspected militants, who opened fire upon being challenged.
Security personnel returned fire in self-defence and to prevent the militants from escaping. During the clash, one militant was killed, while others fled under the cover of darkness.
A subsequent search operation led to the recovery of the body of the slain militant, who was later identified as a member of the TTP-linked Gandapur group. Sources said the militant had been involved in attacks on police check posts as well as assaults on security forces operating in the area.
Following the encounter, search and clearance operations were expanded amid concerns about the possible presence of additional militants and facilitators in nearby localities. Security officials said the operation was part of an intensified campaign to disrupt militant networks and prevent further attacks.
The latest operation comes amid a renewed wave of militant activity across southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in districts such as Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu, and North Waziristan, where Fitna al-Khawarij has increasingly targeted law enforcement, development projects, and civilian infrastructure.
Security sources reiterated that intelligence-based and targeted operations would continue with increased frequency, stressing that attacks on police and security personnel would be met with a firm response. They added that efforts were also underway to dismantle militant support networks and deny extremists the ability to regroup or operate freely.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies, noting that timely information from local communities remains critical in preventing attacks and neutralizing militant threats.
