The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Mardan killed three suspected militants during an intelligence-based operation in Shabqadar, while efforts continue to arrest other suspects who managed to escape.
According to CTD officials, the operation was launched after receiving credible information about the presence of terrorists in the area. A gun battle broke out during the raid, resulting in the deaths of three key militants.
One of the slain suspects was identified as Hayat Khan, also known as Hayatullah. He was a proclaimed offender and was wanted in connection with the Maulana Izzatullah target killing case.
The second suspect, Asim, was allegedly involved in several attacks targeting police personnel and religious leaders in Khyber district.
The third militant, Aminullah, also known as Muawiya and Qari, was killed during the operation. Authorities have completed his identification process.
CTD officials said security forces recovered three Kalashnikov rifles, hand grenades, and a quantity of ammunition from the possession of the deceased militants.
Authorities added that several suspects escaped during the exchange of fire. A search and clearance operation is currently underway in the area to locate and arrest those who fled.
