16 militants killed, 2 police personnel martyred in Bannu joint operation

BANNU: At least 16 militants dead during a joint operation carried out by the armed forces, police and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in the Miryan area of Bannu, security sources said. During the intense exchange of fire, two police personnel were also martyred, the source added.

The operation was launched after intelligence reports about the presence of militants in the area, according to security officials.

The militants killed included commander Zamri Noor and Afghan commander Abdullah Saeed, security sources added.

Officials said several militant hideouts were also destroyed during the operation carried out in the difficult terrain.

The martyred policemen, Constables Wahidullah and Noorullah, were laid to rest with full official honours at Bannu Police Lines. Senior civil and military officials, local elders and a large number of citizens attended the funeral prayers.

Security sources said operations against militants will continue until the complete elimination of remaining elements, adding that coordinated actions by security forces and law enforcement agencies against terrorism are ongoing.