PESHAWAR (MNN); Security forces killed at least seven terrorists during a successful intelligence-based operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu district on Friday, thwarting what officials described as a major terrorist plot.
According to security sources, the operation was conducted in the Ghora Baka Khel area of Baka Khel tehsil after intelligence agencies received credible information regarding the movement of armed militants transporting a large quantity of weapons and explosives.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, security personnel targeted a suspicious vehicle that had reportedly been parked near a government school. A quadcopter was used to strike the vehicle with precision.
Security sources said the vehicle was carrying a significant cache of weapons and ammunition, including a 12.7-millimetre heavy machine gun, rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), mortar shells and other explosive material.
The strike triggered a massive explosion that completely destroyed the vehicle. Initial reports indicate that all seven terrorists travelling in the vehicle were killed instantly. Some reports suggested that the number of militants inside the vehicle could have been as high as eight.
Following the operation, security forces launched a search and clearance operation across the area to eliminate any remaining threats and ensure the safety of local residents. Investigations into the incident are also underway.
Bannu has witnessed a sharp rise in militant violence over recent months, with terrorists repeatedly targeting security personnel, police installations and public infrastructure.
Earlier this week, terrorists used a quadcopter to drop two explosive devices on the Haved Police Station, leaving two Frontier Corps personnel with minor injuries.
Earlier this month, an alleged militant commander and two other individuals were killed in separate incidents in the district, while militants also attempted to destroy a strategically important bridge.
Last month, two police personnel and two civilians embraced martyrdom during clashes with terrorists, while security forces, assisted by members of a local peace committee, eliminated 25 militants during a fierce gun battle.
