Web Desk: Security forces killed two terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in the northwestern district of Bannu, the military said, as authorities intensified efforts to dismantle networks behind recent attacks.
The operation took place on April 19 after authorities received intelligence about the presence of militants in the area, the military’s media wing said in a statement. Security forces engaged the suspects in a firefight, which resulted in the deaths of both individuals.
Officials identified one of those killed as Waheedullah, also known as Mukhtiar, described as a key militant commander. The second was identified as a suicide bomber.
Following the operation, troops recovered a suicide vest along with a cache of weapons and ammunition from the site, the statement said. Meanwhile, security forces launched a clearance and search operation in the surrounding area to eliminate any remaining militants.
Military officials said the action formed part of a broader counterterrorism campaign aimed at rooting out insurgent networks across the country.
Authorities linked Waheedullah to multiple attacks targeting security personnel and civilians. He was also described as the alleged mastermind behind a suicide bombing in Bannu on February 21, 2026, which had heightened security concerns in the region.
Since that attack, security agencies have stepped up intelligence operations to track down facilitators and disrupt militant logistics networks. Officials said Waheedullah played a central role not only in planning attacks but also in coordinating suicide bombers.
The military said the latest operation was conducted under an ongoing nationwide campaign aimed at eliminating militancy. Officials reiterated their commitment to continue operations without discrimination until stability is restored.
In recent months, Bannu district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has seen a surge in militant activity, posing challenges to law enforcement and local administration.
However, authorities said sustained operations reflect a coordinated and aggressive strategy to restore security, with the broader goal of enabling economic and social activity to resume in affected areas.
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