Dera Ghazi Khan: An intelligence-based operation by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in Dera Ghazi Khan killed at least four militants linked to the Fitna Al Khawarij group, security sources said on Monday.
Authorities reported that several other suspects managed to escape after an intense exchange of gunfire with the CTD team. Officials have now launched a large-scale search operation to track down the remaining militants.
Operation targets suspected militant hideout
According to a CTD spokesperson, authorities launched the operation after receiving intelligence about the presence of around 15 militants near the village of Jotar in Dera Ghazi Khan.
Security officials said the militants had allegedly been planning attacks on police personnel and other security institutions in the region.
Consequently, CTD teams moved into the area to arrest the suspects. However, when officers approached the location, the militants reportedly opened fire on the security personnel.
In response, the CTD team returned fire, triggering a fierce gun battle that lasted for some time.
As the exchange intensified, four militants were killed during the operation. Nevertheless, approximately 11 others managed to flee the area under the cover of darkness.
Weapons seized as search operation expands
During the raid, CTD officials recovered a cache of weapons from the militants’ possession. Authorities seized rifles, ammunition, explosives and other devices believed to be intended for terrorist activities.
Meanwhile, officials said the process of identifying the militants killed in the operation remains underway.
At the same time, security forces have launched a search operation across surrounding areas to locate and apprehend the suspects who escaped.
Authorities confirmed that law enforcement teams are conducting raids at multiple locations to prevent the militants from regrouping or carrying out attacks.
Furthermore, the CTD urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report any suspicious activity to help prevent terrorism.
