Lakki Marwat, KP: Three militants from the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Tipu Gul group, were killed in a late-night joint operation by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and local police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Lakki Marwat district. The operation took place in the Bathani Neh area near Harama Tala village, following a tip-off about militant activity.
Police spokesperson Aamir Khan confirmed the militants were involved in multiple high-profile killings. These included the assassination of CTD official Waheedullah, Traffic Constable Anwar Sher, and Constable Idrees. The encounter lasted for about 25 minutes, with a heavy exchange of fire between law enforcement and the militants.
The killed suspects were identified as Waseemullah alias Umar Khattab, Qudratullah alias Abu Bakr, and Hijratullah alias Hijrat. All three were residents of different parts of Lakki Marwat district. They were wanted by Bannu CTD for several serious crimes, including bomb blasts using IEDs, ambushes on police patrols, and extortion.
Lakki Marwat has remained a hub for militant activity over the years, with periodic violence threatening local stability. In recent weeks, the district has seen an uptick in terrorist attacks, despite peace efforts. Just days ago, a peace committee leader and his two companions were also shot dead by suspected militants in the area.
In June, another encounter in Kot Kashmir resulted in the killing of three terrorists, but also claimed the life of a brave police officer. Authorities say these operations reflect their continued resolve to root out terrorism and ensure security in KP. The fallen officers have been hailed as martyrs, and investigations into the network of these militants are ongoing.