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MIRANSHAH:
A joint intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu district entered its third consecutive day on Sunday, during which one suspected terrorist was killed and eight other suspects were taken into custody.
According to police, the operation was led by Bannu District Police Officer (DPO) Captain (Retd) Muhammad Furqan Bilal. Personnel from the district police, Elite Force, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and the Pakistan Army jointly participated in the operation in the Griara Shah Jahan village.
Police said the Pakistan Army cordoned off the area and established checkpoints at various locations. During the operation, a suspected terrorist was killed while allegedly attempting to plant an improvised explosive device (IED).
Police claimed a Kalashnikov rifle, several magazines and ammunition were recovered from the slain suspect. During the search operation, police also detained eight suspected individuals and handed them over to the CTD and district police for joint technical investigation.
Authorities further claimed they recovered two Honda CD-125 motorcycles and one rickshaw from the house of wanted commander Zargul, alias “Uncle”. Sources said the house of Zargul alias “Uncle” was also demolished, although police have not officially confirmed the claim.
Bannu police said joint operations with law enforcement agencies and security forces would continue with the resolve to eliminate terrorism, restore peace and protect the lives and property of citizens.
Meanwhile, sources said separate operations were also underway in different areas of Baka Khel tehsil of Bannu, adding that details were expected to be released later by the Inter-Services Public Relations.
The ongoing operation also led to the suspension of mobile phone and internet services across the district for a third consecutive day, causing significant inconvenience to residents and severely affecting business activities in Bannu city.
