KOHAT: Regional Police Officer (RPO), Kohat, Abbas Majid Marwat on Sunday said that the first information report (FIR) of the Hangu firing incident had been registered at the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Police Station in Hangu.
He said that the FIR was registered on the complaint of SHO Fazal Khan of Thal Police Station in Hangu against the attackers. He said that a major intelligence-based operation (IBO) against banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorists was underway in Hangu district.
He said nine militants were killed in the operation while four others were injured in the action.The RPO said that three bodies of slain militants were shifted to a local hospital, while six more remained in mountainous areas.
The FIR nominated TTP commanders Qasim, Abu Bakar, Irfan, Hamid and several other terrorists.According to the FIR, intelligence reports indicated the presence of nearly 120 terrorists in Zargari, Shanawari and surrounding areas.
The security forces launched the operation after receiving credible information, and heavy exchange of fire ensued when Hangu District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Khalid Khan (PSP) reached the site with his team.
The RPO praised the bravery and leadership of DPO Khalid Khan, who personally led the operation from the front despite sustaining injuries during the gun battle. “DPO Khalid Khan’s unwavering courage, professionalism and leadership during this operation set an example for the entire force,” Marwat remarked.
He said security forces inflicted heavy losses on the terrorists, forcing them to retreat in panic, leaving behind the bodies of three killed militants on Chapri Nariab Road. These bodies have been taken into custody for legal formalities and were later moved to a hospital.
“This successful operation highlights the unmatched professional capabilities, coordination and sacrifice of Hangu police and security forces. The courage and sense of duty displayed by our personnel is a matter of great pride,” RPO Marwat said.
RPO Marwat further assured that the Hangu police, along with other security agencies, would continue fulfilling their constitutional and national responsibilities to eliminate all forms of militancy and unrest.
Inspector General of Police (IGP), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed (PSP), also lauded the Hangu police for the operation, stating: “This action is clear proof of the police force’s professional excellence, sacrifice and unwavering resolve to eliminate terrorism. All such officers and personnel are our true heroes. Operations like these will continue with full force.”