Khyber, September 20, 2025 — In a significant counterterrorism development, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) carried out an operation near Lala Cheena in the Khyber district, killing three militants, including the masterminds behind the deadly Chamakni suicide attack.
According to CTD officials, the operation targeted a hideout of a banned militant group. During the raid, the group’s commander, Fazal Noor, managed to escape along with some associates. However, three militants identified as Naeem, Karim, and Noor Nabi were killed in the encounter. Noor Nabi was reportedly a resident of Nangarhar province in Afghanistan, while Naeem and Karim were directly linked to planning the Chamakni attack.
Weapons Recovered
CTD sources confirmed that security personnel recovered a cache of arms and ammunition from the slain militants, including three submachine guns (SMGs), twelve magazines, and 135 rounds of live ammunition. Authorities stated that the weapons were likely intended for future attacks in the region.
Background: The Chamakni Suicide Attack
The operation comes in the wake of the May 11 suicide bombing in the jurisdiction of Chamakni Police Station, which claimed the lives of two police officials, including a sub-inspector. Investigations had since revealed that Naeem and Karim were key architects of the assault, making them high-priority targets for security forces.
Cross-Border Concerns
The presence of Noor Nabi, an Afghan national from Nangarhar, highlights growing concerns about cross-border militant movements and sanctuaries. Security analysts argue that such links underscore the need for stronger border management and intelligence cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
CTD’s Continuing Efforts
Officials emphasized that operations in Khyber and adjoining tribal areas will continue until the remaining fugitives, including commander Fazal Noor, are apprehended. Security has been tightened in the region, with intelligence-sharing among agencies being enhanced to prevent further terrorist plots.
The successful elimination of three key militants is being seen as a significant blow to the banned outfit’s operational capacity. However, the escape of the group’s leader signals that the threat is far from over.
Broader Implications
The incident underlines the persistent challenge of militancy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and adjoining tribal regions. Despite numerous operations, terrorist groups remain capable of staging high-profile attacks. Law enforcement agencies argue that continued vigilance, community cooperation, and stronger laws are vital to combating these threats.
For now, the CTD’s operation has been hailed as a major success in Pakistan’s ongoing counterterrorism efforts, especially given that it neutralized individuals directly responsible for the Chamakni tragedy.
