DI KHAN / MALAKAND — July 20, 2025: In a significant blow to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Pakistani security forces eliminated 14 militants in two separate intelligence-based operations in the province of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The operations were carried out in Hangu and Malakand districts, both of which have witnessed heightened militant activity in recent months.

Operation 1: Hangu District

The first operation occurred in the Zargari Shanawar area of Hangu, where a fierce gun battle broke out between militants and law enforcement agencies. Nine terrorists were killed during the exchange. Among the wounded were District Police Officer (DPO) Mohammad Khalid Khan and a station house officer (SHO), both of whom sustained injuries while leading the charge. Security officials confirmed their conditions were stable, and DPO Khan was later shifted to Peshawar for further treatment.

The operation was launched following actionable intelligence about the presence of TTP operatives in the area. The terrorists were reportedly planning to target security personnel and public institutions.

Operation 2: Malakand District

In a parallel development, security forces launched a raid in the Mazari Baba area of Malakand, where they neutralized five additional militants. Eight suspected terrorists were also arrested during the raid, believed to be involved in planning cross-border attacks and supplying weapons to TTP sleeper cells in the region.

This operation also stemmed from prior surveillance and intelligence tracking. Security sources believe the group had infiltrated from across the Afghan border and were setting up a safehouse.

Government and Public Response

The successful operations have drawn praise from both federal and provincial leadership. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the bravery and precision of the armed forces and police, calling the operation “a demonstration of Pakistan’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism.”

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur specifically commended DPO Hangu and his team, stating, “The courage and quick action of our police leadership averted a major terror incident. Their service is nothing short of heroic.”

Background and Context

The TTP has escalated attacks in Pakistan in recent years, particularly following the breakdown of a ceasefire agreement in 2022. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, due to its geographic and tribal proximity to Afghanistan, remains a critical front in the country’s counterterrorism efforts.

Security analysts warn that the group is attempting to regroup and exploit cross-border sanctuaries, but assert that continued coordinated operations like these will limit their ability to regain operational strength.

Summary

  • Total militants killed: 14

  • Militants arrested: 8

  • Injured personnel: 2 police officers and 1 security personnel

  • Locations: Zargari Shanawar (Hangu), Mazari Baba (Malakand)

The security situation remains tense but under control, with heightened vigilance across the province as Pakistan intensifies its crackdown on militant networks.