Intelligence Raids Target Bajaur and Khyber Hideouts
Security forces killed 10 suspected militants during separate intelligence-based operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday, according to security sources.
The raids were conducted under Operation 11 Garaj, an ongoing counterterrorism campaign targeting militant hideouts, facilitators and explosive networks across the province.
Security sources said two militants were killed in the Shakro area of Bajaur district.
Eight others were killed during separate operations in the Darbi Khel and Batan areas of Khyber district.
The operations were launched after authorities received verified intelligence about the presence and movements of armed groups.
Security personnel surrounded the suspected locations before engaging the militants.
Several hideouts were reportedly destroyed during the raids. An unspecified number of militants were also injured.
Authorities did not immediately release the identities of the 10 suspected militants.
No casualties among security personnel were reported in the initial accounts.
The operation has reportedly continued across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for approximately two months. It is aimed at disrupting militant networks and restoring stability in affected districts.
Hangu Checkpost Attack Mastermind Killed Separately
Security forces also killed a senior militant commander identified as Amir Muawiya during a separate intelligence operation in Hangu district.
The operation was conducted in the Chapri Naryab area.
Authorities identified Muawiya as the alleged mastermind behind the July 30 attack on the Khazina Banda police checkpost.
Security sources said Muawiya held a senior position in the Kurram chapter of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.
He was also wanted in connection with several other militant attacks.
Officials described his death as a major setback for the network operating in Hangu, Kurram and neighbouring areas.
The Khazina Banda checkpost attack killed nine police personnel, including Deputy Superintendent of Police Diyar Khan.
Another 28 officers, including Deputy Superintendent of Police Mujahid Hussain, were injured.
Police said 15 militants were killed during the response to the attack.
Security authorities have pledged to pursue all individuals involved in planning, facilitating or carrying out the assault.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the forces for killing the alleged mastermind.
He said intelligence-based operations were essential for restoring peace and weakening militant networks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Weapons Recovered and Explosive Devices Destroyed
Security sources said suspected militant facilitators were also detained during the wider campaign.
Forces reportedly recovered a large quantity of weapons and ammunition from the targeted locations.
Improvised explosive devices were discovered and safely destroyed before they could be used in attacks.
Ground personnel received aerial surveillance support from quadcopters during the operations.
The technology helped forces monitor militant movements, identify hideouts and reduce risks to nearby communities.
Security sources said the sustained operations were forcing militants to leave populated areas.
Authorities believe this will make it harder for armed groups to use civilian settlements for shelter, movement or logistical support.
The latest raids followed other major counterterrorism operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Five suspected militants were killed during an intelligence operation in Razmak a day earlier.
Security sources also reported that 24 militants were killed in Khyber district on July 29.
Officials said operations would continue against militant commanders, facilitators and explosive networks.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has experienced a sharp increase in attacks targeting police, security personnel and government installations.
Border districts have remained particularly vulnerable because of difficult terrain and militant movement across remote areas.
Security forces say intelligence-led raids remain a central part of the campaign to prevent further attacks and restore lasting peace across the province.
