9 Indian sponsored terrorists gunned down in Dir operation
Two civilians martyred, ten cops wounded seriously; PM, Interior Minister laud forces action against Fitna Alkhwarij
Staff Report
PESHAWAR: At least nine Indian sponsored terrorists were mowed down in a number of counter terrorism operations conducted against the Fitna Alkhwarij in upper Dir district. However, as many as two civilians also embraced martyrdom and ten men in uniform sustained serious injuries during the joint operations spanning over three days, the security officials said on Tuesday.
The operations against the foreign terrorists were conducted jointly by the by Police, the Counter Terrorism Department and the Quick Response Force.
“The operation against Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists continued for three consecutive days in an area of nearly 20 square kilometres. The weather is bad here as it is raining, and this area consists of forests and tops, which is the reason the clearance operation took time, SSP Syed Muhammad Bilal said.
The senior police officials said the personnel of the police, Elite force, and Rapid Response Force took part in the operation conducted in multiple areas of the Upper Dir including Hill Top, Dobando Dara, Masala Banda, Shandal Bagh, Itan Dara, Bagh Kale, Sanger, and Shandal Bagh.
The intelligence-based operation was launched against the Indian sponsored terrorists on Saturday and the exchange of heavy gunfire continued till late Monday night, DPO of Upper Dir said. Police officials claimed the terrorists were linked to the August 14 attack on a police van in Panahkot, which left three policemen martyred and six others wounded.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has commended the CTD and police officers and personnel for their successful operation against the Indian sponsored militants.
In a statement issued Tuesday the Premier lauded the professional capabilities of the forces taking part in the surgery against the Fitna Alkhwarij and successfully eliminating nine Khawarij militants during the operation.
The Prime Minister also expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of civilians during the operation, praying for the elevation of their ranks and patience for their grieving families. He further prayed for the swift recovery of the injured personnel and directed health authorities to provide best medical care to the cops.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also praised the KP police and the CTD for conducting a successful operation in Dir that led to the elimination of nine terrorists. The Interior Minister lauded the professional skills and bravery of the security forces, noting that their timely action thwarted the terrorists’ “nefarious designs”.
“By sending nine terrorists to their ultimate end, the KP police and CTD have demonstrated exceptional courage and professionalism. I salute the brave sons of the police and CTD for this major achievement. The entire nation is proud of its valour,” Mohsin Naqvi added.
