An exchange of fire in Hangu left six Pakistan Army personnel martyred, including two officers, while eight militants were killed.
The clash occurred on September 20 during an encounter between a security forces convoy and militants in Hangu district. The military’s media wing confirmed the casualties and militant deaths.
According to the statement, the eight militants belonged to what the military described as India-sponsored Fitna al-Khawarij. The security forces engaged the militants during the convoy movement and killed them in the exchange.
Six Security Personnel Martyred in Hangu
Six security personnel lost their lives during the exchange of fire. Two officers were among those martyred while leading their troops during the engagement.
The fallen personnel included Captain Abuzar Farooq, Lieutenant Sheraz Babar, Sepoy Shakeel Ahmed, Non-Combatant Ghulam Sajjad, Sepoy Hamza and Sepoy Muhammad Usman Aziz.
The incident highlights the risks faced by security forces during operations against militants in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Meanwhile, authorities have continued security operations in areas affected by militant activity.
Eight Militants Killed in Hangu Encounter
The military said eight militants were killed during the exchange. It attributed their deaths to effective engagement by security forces.
The statement said, “On 20 September 2026, fire exchange took place between the Security Forces convoy and Khwarij in Hangu District. Resultantly, eight Khwarij belonging to Indian-sponsored Fitna-Al-Khwarij were sent to hell due to effective engagement by own troops.”
The military’s statement used the term “Fitna-Al-Khwarij” for the militants. This terminology reflects the official description of the group involved in the encounter.
Earlier Militants Killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
The latest Hangu clash followed several other engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to the military, security forces killed 10 militants between September 15 and 17.
Six soldiers were also martyred during those earlier engagements. The military had reported those casualties before Sunday’s Hangu encounter.
Therefore, the latest clash forms part of a broader series of security operations against militants in the province.
Sanitisation Operation Underway
Following the exchange, security forces began sanitisation operations in the area. The operation aims to identify and eliminate any militants who may still be present.
Meanwhile, security forces continue efforts to secure the affected areas following the encounter. The authorities have not provided further details about the ongoing sanitisation operation.
The Hangu clash has consequently resulted in significant casualties among both security personnel and militants. Security forces are now continuing operations to prevent any remaining militants from regrouping in the area.
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