4 terrorists killed in Kohat, Karak clashes

KOHAT: Four terrorists belonging to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were killed in separate operations in Kohat and Karak on Friday, officials said.

DPO Shahzad Elahi said that the exchange of fire took place between police and terrorists near Bazidkhel and the Kohat Tunnel. He said the SHO Riaz of Sadar Police Station was on a routine patrol in the area when came under sudden fire from the terrorists.

Upon receiving information about the attack, he said, additional police contingents rushed to the scene. In the ensuing gun battle, he said, the police retaliated effectively, killing all three militants on the spot. No police personnel were injured or killed in the encounter, and all officers remained safe, the DPO added.

Officials said the identities of the slain militants and details of their network were being investigated.

A search operation is underway in the surrounding areas to locate any remaining militants.

Meanwhile, three cops were injured and one militant was killed in an exchange of fire near the mountainous area of Amberi Kalla on the Kohat–Karak boundary.

DPO Shahbaz Elahi said the security forces launched a search operation after receiving intelligence reports about the presence of militants in the area. The terrorists opened fire on the police during the search operation, injuring Akhtar Hayat, Najeebullah and Mujahid. They were immediately shifted to KDA Hospital, where officials confirmed their condition to be out of danger.

DPO Elahi further stated that one militant was killed in the exchange, while several others are believed to be injured. He added that the gun battle between law enforcement personnel and militants was still ongoing at the time of the latest reports.