At least six security personnel were injured in a quadcopter strike by militants on Bannu’s Miryan Police Station as a joint operation against terrorists continued in the Nurar area.

As per a police spokesperson, the attack took place when an intelligence-based operation by police officers, security personnel and commandos from the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) continued in the area. The operation was launched following intelligence reports suggesting the presence of “Fitna al-Khawarij” –  the term used by authorities for the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

“During the aerial attack, a quadcopter dropped explosives on the police station, causing an explosion that left two army soldiers, three CTD personnel and one police constable injured,” the official said, adding that the injured were rushed to Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Bannu.

Security forces have set up checkpoints while cordoning off the area as successful targeted raids and strikes on militant hideouts continue, the police official said.

It merits a mention that the operation was initiated after confirmation of presence of over 200 militants in the Miryan Police Station area spread panic. Armed TTP militants had taken to the streets, forcing shopkeepers to shut down businesses and leaving residents confined indoors, halting normal life. 

“The timely and effective actions of law enforcement have forced the terrorists to flee the area,” the police official said, adding that operations were to continue till elimination of all militants. 

Meanwhile, business activities in the area remained suspended and locals described the situation as “resembling a curfew”. Reports from the area said that loudspeakers in mosques were used early Thursday morning to warn residents to stay indoors and cooperate with the ongoing operation.
 

Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sajjad Khan also said that the area would be cleared of terrorists at all costs. He reaffirmed the police's resolve to act firmly against anti-law elements and restore peace. He added that terrorists had suffered heavy losses during the operation.

RPO Khan also paid a visit to the hospital to check on the injured personnel and commended their courage.