PESHAWAR: The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Peshawar Region successfully neutralised two high-profile terrorists during a fierce gun battle in the Regi Northern Bypass area.
The operation, conducted by the CTD Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, was launched following a confirmed intelligence tip-off regarding the movement of “Fitna-ul-Khawarij” militants planning a localised terror attack.
Upon reaching the Northern Bypass, the militants initiated indiscriminate fire against the CTD personnel. Exercising their right to self-defence, the security forces engaged the attackers in a prolonged encounter.
Following the cessation of fire and a subsequent search of the cordoned-off area, two terrorists were found dead. They were identified through personal documents as Abbas, son of Qismat Khan, and Usman, son of Kastori Khan, both residents of Shahi Bala.
The recovery of evidence from the scene highlighted the gravity of the militants’ criminal history. Specifically, the personal mobile phone of martyred CTD Constable Sanaullah was recovered from Abbas’s possession. Abbas was a notorious figure wanted by the CTD in 11 separate terrorism cases, including attacks that resulted in the martyrdom of five policemen and injuries to over a dozen others. Security forces also seized a Kalashnikov, a 9mm pistol, and a significant cache of ammunition from the site.
While two militants were neutralised, others managed to flee the scene by taking advantage of the darkness. A heavy police contingent was immediately dispatched to the area to establish a security perimeter, and a comprehensive search operation is currently underway to apprehend the fugitives.
The Inspector General of Police, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Additional IG CTD have extended special commendations to the SWAT team for their bravery and tactical success. In a joint statement, the leadership reaffirmed that the nefarious objectives of terrorists would never be allowed to succeed, stating that the nation maintains unwavering trust and pride in its security forces.
