By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi
PESHAWAR: Three suspected militants were killed in Peshawar during an intelligence-led operation carried out by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), officials said, while two accomplices managed to escape.
The operation took place within the jurisdiction of Matni Police Station, near the Akhun Baba graveyard on Azakhel Road, following credible intelligence that the suspects were preparing a major act of sabotage in the area. CTD personnel, supported by Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams, launched the raid after confirming the presence of the militants.
According to officials, the suspects opened fire on the police team, prompting a swift response in self-defence. Three men were killed on the spot, while two others managed to flee. Security forces subsequently secured the area and recovered the bodies along with three Kalashnikov rifles, nine magazines, and a substantial cache of ammunition.
A heavy police presence was maintained around the site, and authorities launched a manhunt to track down the two fleeing suspects. Inspector General of Police Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed, and the Additional Inspector General of Police CTD commended the officers for their professionalism and the successful outcome of the operation.
Officials described the raid as part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts aimed at protecting civilians and safeguarding property in the province. They emphasized that such actions would continue with increased intensity, targeting criminal and militant networks to prevent attacks and eliminate the threat of terrorism from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
The operation, authorities said, underscores the continued commitment of law enforcement agencies to respond decisively to credible threats, maintain public safety, and disrupt the planning and execution of violent acts before they can be carried out.
