Security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Upper Dir district foiled a major terrorist attack from Afghanistan, killing at least five Fitna-al-Khwarij terrorists in a joint counterterrorism operation on Sunday.
According to senior security officials, intelligence had warned a week earlier of terrorist regrouping in the border regions, prompting police and security units to remain on high alert.
Acting on the information, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), District Police, Rapid Response Force (RRF) and Elite Force launched a targeted operation in the areas of Dobando, Barikot, Salam Kot and Atandra under the leadership of Upper Dir District Police Officer (DPO) Syed Muhammad Bilal.
During the early morning raid, forces encircled the terrorists from multiple directions, establishing checkpoints at key routes to cut off escape and disrupt movement. A command-and-control centre was also set up to coordinate the effort.
The most intense exchange of fire took place in Salam Kot, where five terrorists were neutralised. Security personnel later recovered the body of one of them, while a search was underway to locate the remaining dead and secure the area.
One civilian was killed in the crossfire, while seven police constables sustained minor injuries, who were shifted to the hospital and are reported to be out of danger.
Local residents have actively supported the security forces and lauded the professionalism and resolve of the operation.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Zulfiqar Hameed confirmed to The Express Tribune that timely intelligence, with the help of technology, prevented a large-scale assault. "We had information that terrorists were planning to enter Dir. Our forces remained vigilant and successfully foiled their attempt," he said.
In a statement, IGP Hameed praised the courage and commitment of the personnel involved. "Our officers and jawans stand ready to defend the homeland at all times. Their determination to defeat the nefarious designs of terrorists is unwavering. We are proud of their bravery."
Meanwhile, the security sweep continues in the region and search operations are underway to ensure the area is completely cleared of terrorist presence.
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