In a major counter-terrorism success, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police eliminated three terrorists in a joint intelligence-based operation in Barikot, a town in the Swat district.

The operation was launched following credible intelligence reports about the presence of militants linked to the banned outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also referred to by authorities as Fitnaul Khawarij. Upon reaching the targeted location, the security forces came under fire. A swift retaliatory response resulted in the death of all three militants.

One of the slain terrorists was identified as Ajmal alias Waqas, a notorious TTP commander with a Rs. 2 million bounty on his head. He was wanted for his involvement in several deadly attacks on police and military personnel and had long been on the government’s most-wanted list.

The identities of the other two killed terrorists are yet to be disclosed, but officials confirmed their involvement in multiple terror-related incidents.

Speaking to reporters, Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Omar Khan Gandapur stated: “Our forces responded effectively when fired upon. All three terrorists were involved in serious criminal activities and posed a significant threat to public safety. This operation is part of our continued efforts to eliminate terrorism from the region.”

Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the security of the province and vowed to carry out further targeted operations to dismantle remaining militant networks.