Hangu: Security forces and law enforcement agencies successfully foiled an infiltration attempt by more than 100 militants linked to “Fitna al-Khawarij” in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu district, officials said.
According to police authorities, a coordinated operation involving the police, Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and other security institutions was launched after intelligence reports about militant movement in the area.
Officials stated that the operation successfully prevented the militants from entering populated regions and targeting public infrastructure.
Area Cleared After Operation
Police said that following the successful operation, security forces cleared schools, nearby properties, and surrounding mountainous areas to ensure that no militants remained hidden in the region.
The operation reportedly continued for several hours, during which intense exchanges of fire took place between security personnel and militants.
Authorities added that the situation is now under control, while search and clearance operations are continuing in nearby areas as a precautionary measure.
Civilian Casualties Reported
Police officials confirmed that six civilians were martyred and 13 others injured after mortar shells fired by militants landed in residential areas.
The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals, where several were reported to be in critical condition.
Local residents described scenes of panic during the attack as explosions echoed across the area and families rushed to safer locations.
Officials said the militants retreated after facing strong resistance from security forces and reportedly carried away the bodies of their dead companions along with injured fighters while fleeing.
No official figure regarding militant casualties has yet been released.
Praise for Security Personnel
Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Zulfiqar Hameed praised the officers and personnel who participated in the operation.
He announced rewards and commendation certificates for the officials involved in successfully repelling the infiltration attempt.
“The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police has the capability to completely eliminate Fitna al-Khawarij,” the IG said.
He further stated that the police and security agencies would continue taking all necessary measures to protect the public and maintain peace in the province.
“We will not hesitate to make any sacrifice for the safety and security of the people,” he added.
Rising Security Concerns in KP
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed an increase in militant activity in recent years, particularly in districts bordering former tribal areas and mountainous regions.
Security forces frequently conduct intelligence-based operations against militant groups accused of attacking civilians, security personnel, and public installations.
Hangu, due to its geographical location, has often remained sensitive from a security perspective, with authorities maintaining heightened vigilance against possible infiltration attempts.
Analysts say the latest operation reflects growing coordination among police, CTD, and other security agencies in counterterrorism efforts across the province.
Continued Search Operations
Officials said security forces remain on high alert following the incident, and additional personnel have been deployed in vulnerable areas to prevent any further militant movement.
Search operations are also being carried out in nearby mountainous terrain and villages to trace possible hideouts or facilitators linked to the attackers.
Authorities have urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report any suspicious activity to help maintain security in the region.
The incident once again highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by Pakistan in its efforts to combat militancy and maintain stability in sensitive regions of the country.
