Security forces killed one terrorist during an intelligence-based operation in Bannu district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP), security sources said on Monday.
The operation followed what sources described as confirmed intelligence about terrorist activity in the area. They said security forces were closely monitoring the movement and presence of Fitna al-Khawarij, the term used by the Pakistani state for members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
According to the sources, the operation formed part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts under the Azm-e-Istehkam framework. They said security forces would continue operations to disrupt militant networks and restrict their movement.
The sources reaffirmed the commitment to eliminating terrorism from KP but did not immediately provide further details about the operation or the identity of the person killed.
Recent Attacks Raise Security Concerns
The operation comes amid a series of deadly attacks in KP.
Earlier this month, a blast struck a joint checkpoint near Aman Mela in the Darazinda area of Dera Ismail Khan, killing 12 people and injuring 35 others. The TTP claimed responsibility for the attack.
Ishaq Dar Defends Governor’s Rule in KP, Says Government Had ‘No Choice’
On September 19, a bombing at a mosque in Kohat’s Police Lines killed 23 people, including 15 police personnel, during Friday prayers. Security forces subsequently killed eight terrorists during a search and clearance operation. The Afghanistan-based Ittihadul Mujahideen Pakistan, led by Hafiz Gul Bahadur, later claimed responsibility.
In a separate incident in Hangu district, six security personnel, including a captain and a lieutenant, were killed in an exchange of fire. Authorities said eight terrorists were also killed.
Reports Highlight Surge in Terrorist Attacks
The Bannu operation comes as security reports presented to the federal cabinet indicate a significant increase in terrorist activity across KP.
According to the reports, terrorist incidents in the province rose by 195% between March 1, 2024, and September 23, 2026. The reports also highlighted a sharp increase in drone attacks and shortages of modern weapons, operational equipment and trained personnel within the provincial police and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD).
Prepared by the KP police and intelligence agencies, the reports were presented by Intelligence Bureau Director General Fuad Asadullah.
The documents stated that 73% of terrorist attacks recorded in KP during 2026 targeted police and security personnel, highlighting the pressure on law enforcement agencies.
The reports attributed the worsening security situation to militant groups operating from Afghanistan, local facilitators and what they described as weaknesses in provincial policies and counter-terrorism preparedness. These assessments reflect the findings presented to the federal cabinet.
Security forces continue to conduct operations across KP as authorities seek to disrupt militant networks and prevent further attacks.
