Security forces kill 9 militants in fierce Hangu fight

A fierce exchange of fire broke out between security forces and militants in the Shinawari Zargari area of Hangu, resulting in the deaths of nine terrorists and injuries to District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Khalid.

He was quickly moved to Peshawar for treatment, where his condition is reported to be stable. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Amjad Hussain confirmed the details of the incident. Inspector General (IG) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, Zulfiqar Hameed, told media that several terrorists were also injured in the exchange. He added that DPO Khalid was in good spirits and praised his bravery during the clash.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also contacted DPO Khalid by phone, appreciated his leadership, and commended the Hangu police team for eliminating five militants. He described their action as a major success in the fight against terrorism and prayed for the early recovery of DPO Khalid and SHO Nabi Khan, who was also injured. You are the pride of the nation. We are proud of you, the minister added.

Pakistan has seen a rise in terror incidents in recent years, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. According to data from the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), there were 85 militant attacks in May alone, a 5 percent increase from April. These attacks led to 113 deaths, including 52 security officials and 46 civilians. Civilian injuries also rose sharply, jumping from 53 in April to 130 in May. However, security personnel injuries decreased by 20 percent.

Security forces also carried out major operations, killing at least 59 militants in May. The month’s total casualties reached 172, showing the ongoing security challenges in the region.