Bannu operation: Forces destroy terrorists hideouts, held facilitators

ISLAMABAD: Police in Bannu said Friday that a joint search and targeted operation against terrorist elements hiding in several areas was successfully completed.

Bannu is in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s southern district where the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban and a coalition of three groups led by Hafiz Gul Bahar are active.

These groups have carried out major attacks in Bannu city in the recent past.

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A police spokesman told Hum News English that seven facilitators were arrested and their three hideouts destroyed in the intelligence-based operation.

The operation was conducted jointly by Pakistan Army and the Police in Hoveed, and Wazirabad areas.

A vehicle and two motorcycles were also taken into custody, the spokesman said.

“A joint patrolling is underway in Hoveed bazar and adjoining areas to ensure security and to remove apprehensions of the local population,” he said.

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The operation was conducted on the directives of the DIG Bannu region and District Police Officer, which is a step towards restoration of durable peace and to root out terrorism.

“Pak army and Bannu Police ate determined to eliminate terrorism from the area. We appeal to the people to inform if they found any suspect,” the police spokesman said.

This operation was launched at 5 in the morning on the basis of secret information and intelligence reports and continued until 2pm, a police official told Hum News English.

During the operation, security forces and police personnel have completely cordoned off the area and house-to-house searches are underway. In case of any suspicious activity or resistance, immediate and effective action was taken to ensure that the terrorists do not get any chance to escape or hide.

A curfew was also imposed in the area in the interest of public safety, and citizens were told to fully cooperate with forces and remain indoors.

Authorities had warned that providing any kind of facility or assistance to terrorists is a serious crime, and strict legal action will be taken against such elements.

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“Bannu police and security forces are determined to establish lasting peace in the region and completely eradicate terrorism,” a police officer said.