DI KHAN: The militants of TTP killed a PAK ARMY officer and injured his two companion in an attack on Dera-Bannu Road area.
According to the details, some unknown assailants launched a firing attack and shot-killed an officer of Pakistan Army, Colonel Imran in the Shorkot area of Dera Islamil Khan.
Two companions of Colonel Imran were seriously injured in the incident.
The security forces arrived immediately on the spot, cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.
The FIR of the murder incident has been filed in the Shorkot Police Station in Dera Ismail Khan.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has seen a sharp resurgence in militant violence since 2022, primarily attributed to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and affiliated groups. The province has recorded the highest number of terrorism-related incidents in Pakistan over the past few years.
Key Trends (2023–2025):
- 2023: Over 500 fatalities (civilians, security forces & militants), with KP accounting for ~70% of all terrorism deaths in Pakistan.
- 2024: Attacks intensified, especially in Bannu, North Waziristan, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, and Swat. Monthly averages: 80–100+ incidents.
- 2025 (so far): Violence remains high, with frequent targeting of police stations, military convoys, check-posts, and security personnel.
Major Recent Attacks (late 2024–early 2025 examples):
- Bannu Police Lines suicide bombing (Dec 2024): 7–10 police killed, 30+ injured.
- North Waziristan IED blasts & ambushes: Dozens of security personnel killed in multiple incidents.
- Lakki Marwat police station attack (Jan 2025): Heavy gunfire and explosives; several casualties.
- Swat & Dir targeted killings: Police officers and former ANP workers assassinated.
- Dera Ismail Khan & Tank: Frequent attacks on security forces, including ambushes on convoys.
Security Response:
- Large-scale military operations (e.g., Azm-e-Istehkam) launched in 2024–2025, focusing on North & South Waziristan, Khyber, and Bajaur.
- Increased use of drones and airstrikes against TTP hideouts.
- Police and Levies forces heavily deployed, but facing high casualties.
Underlying Factors:
- TTP regrouping after Afghan Taliban takeover in 2021.
- Cross-border sanctuaries in Afghanistan.
- Disputes over repatriation of Afghan refugees.
- Political instability and governance challenges in merged tribal districts.
The situation remains volatile, with the Pakistani military and government repeatedly stating that operations will continue until militancy is eradicated.
However, civilian areas continue to bear the brunt of both militant attacks and counter-terrorism measures.
