HANGU: Security forces killed seven militants in a major operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu district after militants attacked a police post, officials said on Thursday.
Police and the Frontier Corps launched the joint operation in Sirki Pyala area after militants targeted a police checkpoint during the night.
Police personnel at the post repelled the attack and engaged the militants in a heavy exchange of fire. Locals also joined police efforts and supported the response, officials said.
Security forces quickly surrounded the area and launched a coordinated counter-operation.
A police spokesperson said seven militants were killed in the clash. The remaining attackers fled, leaving behind the bodies of their two accomplices, the statement added.
During the operation, police constable Haji Abdul Maqsud was killed and was later declared a martyr.
His funeral was held with full official honours at the Police Lines in Hangu, attended by senior police and security officials.
District Police Officer Tariq Habib and Tall Scouts Wing Commander Colonel Lakhkar laid floral wreaths on the coffin and paid tribute to the fallen officer.
Officials said security forces remain fully committed to eliminating militancy from the region with public support.
They praised local residents for assisting police during the operation, saying their cooperation helped demoralise the attackers.
Police said the joint operation has been completed and a search operation is underway to clear the area, with the situation now under control.
