The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Bannu successfully apprehended a wanted militant commander during a precision intelligence-based operation, officials confirmed on Thursday. The suspect, identified as Usama, also known by the aliases Daniyal and Baghi, was arrested from the People Bazaar area.
CTD authorities said the arrested commander is affiliated with a proscribed organisation and has confessed to multiple acts of violence targeting civilians, security personnel, and peace committee members.
Confessions Reveal Involvement in Major Attacks
During initial interrogation, Usama admitted to planning and executing at least nine significant terrorist attacks across the region. His confessions include direct involvement in the killing of Assistant Commissioner Shah Wali Khan and assaults on his security detail.
Officials added that the suspect also confessed to the abduction and murder of former SHO Abid Wazir and several leaders of peace committees in Lakki Marwat. Furthermore, he acknowledged his role in the kidnapping of Frontier Corps personnel, as well as the targeted killing of a polio officer and his security guard.
Additional Criminal Activities
Authorities stated that Usama participated in reconnaissance of sensitive installations, the creation of illegal checkpoints, and other militant operations in southern districts. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and conduct raids to apprehend his accomplices.
Official Praise for CTD Team
Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Additional IG CTD lauded the department for its professionalism and commitment during the operation. They reaffirmed the determination to carry out targeted counterterrorism measures across the province.
Officials emphasized that such operations remain critical to curbing militant activity and ensuring the safety of civilians in volatile areas. The arrest of Usama marks a significant step in dismantling organised terrorist networks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Ongoing Investigation and Security Measures
CTD confirmed that further investigation is underway to fully uncover the network associated with the militant commander. Law enforcement agencies are conducting follow-up raids and security checks in multiple districts to prevent any retaliatory attacks.
Authorities reassured the public that operations against militancy will continue with heightened intensity and intelligence-led precision, particularly in southern and high-risk districts of the province.
