Security Forces Kill Several Terrorists in Lakki Marwat Operations
PESHAWAR: Security forces killed several terrorists during intelligence-based operations in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's Lakki Marwat district on Tuesday, according to state media citing security sources. The operations were carried out amid intensified counterterrorism activity across the province following a series of deadly attacks on police and security personnel.
Security sources said multiple militant hideouts were located and destroyed during the actions. Forces also recovered a substantial quantity of weapons, ammunition and other equipment from the sites, indicating that the locations had been used to support armed activity in the district.
Several other terrorists were reportedly wounded during the encounters. The suspects were described by the authorities as members of Fitna al-Khawarij, the official term used by the Pakistani state for militants associated with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Authorities did not immediately release a precise death toll or the identities of those killed.
Officials said operational planning included measures intended to protect nearby communities and minimise risks to civilians. Security personnel are expected to maintain their presence in the area as intelligence gathering and clearance activity continue against remaining militant networks and possible facilitators.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the forces for their response, commending their professionalism and courage. He said the personnel involved had acted effectively against terrorists in Lakki Marwat and prevented their plans from being carried forward, while reaffirming the government's support for operations aimed at restoring peace in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Naqvi also said the country remained united behind the security forces in the campaign against terrorism. His reaction reflected the federal government's position that sustained intelligence-led action is necessary to dismantle militant infrastructure while reducing threats to civilians, police stations and other vulnerable targets.
The latest operations came two days after a suicide bombing outside Kabal Police Station in Swat killed 17 people, including seven police personnel, and injured 27 others. The attacker reportedly detonated explosives near the main entrance after being intercepted, prompting the provincial government to order stronger action against terrorist groups.
Security forces had also killed 10 terrorists in separate operations across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on August 2. During another action in Hangu, authorities said a militant commander identified as Muawiya, accused of planning an attack on a police checkpost, was killed. The province has witnessed repeated assaults on police and security installations in recent weeks.
The renewed operations are likely to remain a major security priority for Pakistan as authorities attempt to prevent militant groups from rebuilding operational networks in southern Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Further details, including confirmed casualty figures and information about recovered material, are expected after security agencies complete their assessment of the Lakki Marwat actions.