RAWALPINDI: Twelve militants linked to what the military described as Indian-backed Fitna Al-Khwarij were killed, while 11 security personnel embraced martyrdom during an attack on a joint security check post in Bajaur District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday.
The ISPR stated that on February 16, 2026, terrorists launched an assault on a joint check post operated by security forces and Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) in Bajaur. The attackers attempted to penetrate the facility, but their plans were thwarted by a swift and determined response from Pakistani forces.
Security personnel retaliated with precision and professionalism, successfully killing twelve militants as they attempted to flee the scene.
According to the military’s media wing, the assailants detonated an explosive-laden vehicle against the outer wall of the check post in a desperate move. The powerful blast caused significant structural damage, resulting in the martyrdom of 11 security personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
The explosion also severely damaged nearby residential buildings. As a result, one young girl lost her life, while seven other civilians — including women and children — sustained injuries.
The ISPR added that clearance and sanitisation operations are ongoing in the area to eliminate any remaining militants.
The statement further emphasized that Pakistan’s security forces and LEAs will continue their counterterrorism efforts under the vision of “Azm-e-Istehkam,” approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan, to eradicate foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.
“The sacrifices of our courageous soldiers and innocent civilians strengthen our resolve to defend the nation at all costs,” the ISPR concluded.
