BANNU (Salman Ali Khan): Significant progress has been made in the investigation into the cowardly attack by Fitna-ul-Khawarij on the Fateh Khel checkpoint in Bannu, with important facts beginning to emerge.
According to the Bannu police, a total of 12 foreign policemen were killed in the retaliatory fire following the suicide attack, and their bodies were taken away by their accomplices.
In successful intelligence-based operations conducted on Saturday, five additional terrorists were killed, including Hayatullah, the son of Khan Gul, and Maulana Saddam, the son of Shapol, both residents of Sam Toi in Tehsil Shagai, South Waziristan.
Investigations revealed that the terrorists used explosives at the beginning of the attack. However, the police personnel stationed at the checkpoint, despite being injured, responded immediately and effectively.
Reports indicate that several terrorists were killed during the intense exchange of fire, a conclusion that is now being confirmed through the ongoing investigation. Injured personnel, including Head Constable Feroz Khan, Constable Hayatullah, and Constable Fidaullah, fought bravely despite their injuries until their last breath.
Of the 12 terrorists killed, four were buried in the Shakai area of South Waziristan, while two others were buried in the Wazir Khaniya Khel sub-division of Bannu. Intelligence agencies, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and other investigative bodies are working to gather information regarding the identities of more terrorists and their possible burial sites.
During yesterday’s operation, Hayat, the son of Khan Gul and the maker of the suicide vehicle, was also killed. He was a close associate of the mastermind of the attack, Zargul, alias “Uncle.” In addition to Hayat, four other terrorists were killed during subsequent operations, bringing the total number of terrorists eliminated in various police operations to 17.
DPO Bannu Yasir Afridi praised the unparalleled bravery and sacrifice of the injured personnel, stating that the youth of the Bannu Police are standing as a formidable barrier against terrorism.
DIG Bannu Region Sajjad Khan added that the sacrifices of these brave individuals are a source of pride for the entire force, and he assured that the protection of people’s lives and property would be prioritised at all costs. He reiterated that no sacrifice would be spared in the pursuit of peace, and operations against miscreants will continue with full force and professionalism.
