Six militants killed in Pakistan’s northwest security operation

At least six militants were killed during a joint security operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Lakki Marwat district, authorities confirmed on Friday.

The operation, involving Lakki Marwat and Bannu police, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), and local peace committees, was launched in response to a series of suspected drone strikes targeting civilian areas in the region.

One civilian also lost his life during the clash, which resulted in further violence, leaving 19 people - including two police officers and a woman - injured. Local officials confirmed the casualties occurred during intense exchanges of gunfire between militants and security forces.

A police spokesperson, speaking to Nukta, confirmed that the gunfight erupted in the Takhikhel area of Sarai Naurang Tehsil. Reports indicate that police armored vehicles were set on fire during the clashes. Communications remained limited due to mobile network outages, exacerbated by the ongoing violence.

Dr. Ishaq Khan, the medical superintendent of Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital in Lakki Marwat, told Nukta that militants had allegedly deployed quadcopter drones during the assault, leading to a significant rise in casualties.

Dr. Khan confirmed that at least 19 people, including two police officers, a woman, and 16 civilians, were treated at the hospital. Three critically injured individuals were transferred to a medical facility in Bannu after receiving initial care.

Zahir Ali Khan, a civilian, was declared dead on arrival at the hospital.

Response to ongoing violence

Habib Ullah Wazir, the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Lakki Marwat, confirmed that an emergency had been declared at the THQ Hospital. Special instructions were issued to ensure the rapid treatment of the injured.

Local sources reported that over 50 militants attempted to infiltrate the area, prompting a retaliatory response from police and other law enforcement agencies. Residents were urged to support security forces in containing the violence. Gunfire continued intermittently, and authorities feared that the death toll could rise as the situation unfolded.

Militant attacks in Bannu region continue

Sajjad Khan, the Regional Police Officer, reported that the Bannu region had witnessed 134 militant attacks in 2025, including nearly 20 drone strikes. Many of these attacks were repelled by police forces using anti-drone technology.

The Bannu region, which includes volatile areas like North Waziristan, has long been a hub of militant activity due to its proximity to the Afghan border. Militants exploit the region’s rugged terrain and local networks to carry out frequent assaults.

Despite ongoing counter-terrorism efforts and enhanced security measures, officials warned that the region remains a major security challenge, with militants continuing to pose significant threats to both law enforcement and civilians.