BANNU: A joint operation between Bannu Police and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) targeted the militant group Fitna al-Khawarij in the Noor area near Police Station Merian on Thursday. The operation followed orders from DIG Bannu Region Sajjad Khan and was led by DPO Bannu Saleem Abbas Kalachi.
Based on intelligence, police raided suspected hideouts of the group. During the raid, militants opened fire on the police team. Police returned fire, leading to an intense exchange. One police official sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Police believe their counter-fire caused significant casualties among the militants, with reports indicating several members of Fitna al-Khawarij were killed or wounded. The militants also set a police vehicle on fire during the clash.
DPO Kalachi stated that the Bannu Police remain fully alert and committed to upholding government authority. He emphasized that operations against Fitna al-Khawarij and other militant groups will continue with full force.
