In a joint intelligence-based operation in the outskirts of Dera Ismail Khan’s Musa Zai area, security forces and police killed five militants belonging to the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (Gandapur group). During the exchange of fire, Major Sibtein Raza Hazara, a Quetta-based officer, embraced martyrdom.

According to security sources, a large cache of weapons and explosives was recovered from the terrorists’ hideouts during the operation. 

The bodies of three slain militants were taken into custody by the forces. A search and clearance operation is still underway in the area to prevent any possible resistance or escape attempts.

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Meanwhile, in a separate incident, the in-charge of Khatri check post under Dera Town Police Station, Ahmad Nawaz, was martyred after putting up brave resistance against unidentified militants who launched a sudden attack on the post. Police officials said the attackers opened fire without warning, but the personnel responded courageously. Ahmad Nawaz, however, lost his life fighting the terrorists.

The funeral prayer of Shaheed Ahmad Nawaz was held with full official honours at Ijaz Shaheed Police Lines, Dera Ismail Khan. Regional Police Officer Syed Ashfaq Anwar, DPO Sajjad Ahmad Sahibzada, officers of the security forces, senior police officials, and family members of the martyr attended the ceremony. A smartly turned-out police contingent presented a salute, while participants showered flowers on the coffin and prayed for the martyr’s elevated ranks in the hereafter.