At least 12 terrorists killed in clash with police in Pakistan

At least a dozen terrorists were killed and several security personnel injured on May 23 during a heavy exchange of fire between police and armed militants in the Barakzai Akhundkhel area of Miryan tehsil in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, officials said.

District Police Officer (DPO) Yasir Afridi confirmed that 12 terrorists had been eliminated, while “one [individual] was martyred” and four policemen were injured during the operation, Dawn reports.

Bannu Medical Teaching Institution spokesperson Mohammad Noman Khattab said the victim, along with four injured persons, was brought to the District Headquarters Hospital for treatment.

Police further confirmed that a retired Federal Constabulary official was also killed in the crossfire, while four police officers and a child were wounded.

According to police sources, security forces came under intense fire but managed to reposition safely and later called in reinforcements to bring the situation under control. Additional security personnel were deployed as operations expanded in the area.

Local sources said a significant militant presence remains in the Barkazai area, with intermittent firing reported as clearance operations continue.

Contingents of additional security forces have also been deployed to support ongoing search and clearance efforts.

Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for their response, saying: “The sacrifices of our martyrs are a source of pride for the nation, and the country will always remember the services of its brave sons.”

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also commended police and counter-terrorism units for “thwarting the nefarious plans” of militants.

Earlier the same day, Bannu police also foiled a potential attack by defusing a 10-kilogram remote-controlled bomb planted near Gul Zaman Mosque on the Bannu–Miranshah Road, according to officials. The device was safely neutralised by a bomb disposal squad during a targeted operation.

By Sabina Mammadli