HANGU: At least nine terrorists were killed and four officers, including District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Khalid, sustained injuries in a major counter-terror operation launched by security forces in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, officials confirmed on Friday.
The operation, aimed at neutralising elements of the Indian-backed militant group “Fitna-e-Hindustan,” was launched following intelligence reports of insurgent presence in the mountainous areas of Zargari and Shinwari.
A fierce gun battle erupted in Shinwari where DPO Khalid and Station House Officer (SHO) Nabi Khan of Doaba Police Station were injured. DPO Khalid, who reportedly took four bullet wounds, was initially treated at District Headquarters Hospital before being shifted to Peshawar. SHO Nabi Khan sustained minor injuries and remains under observation.
Security officials imposed a curfew across the district, while additional reinforcements from the Frontier Corps and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police were deployed to tighten control over key areas. The large-scale operation remains ongoing, with officials confirming that multiple militants have also been injured.
Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, Zulfiqar Hameed, praised the courage of the injured officers, stating that DPO Khalid was actively leading from the front. “His morale is high, and his condition is stable,” he assured.
President Asif Ali Zardari lauded the successful operation, commending the security forces for their bravery. “The terrorists’ attempt to destabilise peace will not succeed. The state stands firm and united against terrorism,” he said, praying for the speedy recovery of the injured officers.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also spoke to DPO Khalid via phone, praising his leadership. “Your team’s swift action eliminated five terrorists from Fitna-e-Hindustan. You are the pride of the nation,” Naqvi remarked, expressing gratitude on behalf of the nation.
Authorities have pledged to continue the operation until all militant threats in the region are eliminated.
