RAWALPINDI: Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement that on February 16, 2026, a terrorist attack targeted a joint Security Forces and law enforcement check post in Bajaur District. The assailants belonged to the Khwarij faction of the Indian-backed group Fitna al Khwarij.
The attackers attempted to breach the check post but were swiftly repelled by security forces. Troops engaged the fleeing militants with precision, killing 12 attackers.
In a final act of desperation, the militants rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the check post perimeter, collapsing part of the infrastructure. Eleven security personnel were killed in the blast.
Civilian buildings nearby also suffered extensive damage. One young girl was killed, and seven others—including women and children—were injured.
Sanitization operations are underway to clear any remaining militants from the area. The army and law enforcement agencies reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing counterterrorism operations under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” campaign, aimed at eliminating foreign-backed terrorism.
The ISPR said the sacrifices of soldiers and civilians strengthen Pakistan’s resolve to protect the nation at all costs.
