CTD Operation in Shangla Leaves Three Terrorists Dead, Three Police Martyred

The CTD operation in Shangla resulted in the killing of three suspected terrorists and the martyrdom of three police personnel during an intelligence-based raid in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, officials confirmed on Monday.

According to the Counter Terrorism Department spokesperson Muhammad Ali, the joint operation was carried out in the mountainous Kabalgram area of Shangla district. The action involved CTD teams, Elite Force commandos, and local police after receiving confirmed intelligence about the presence of militants linked to Fitna al-Khawarij.

Authorities said the militants were hiding in natural caves and were reportedly supported by local facilitators. The group was suspected of involvement in vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attacks and was considered a serious threat to security forces and infrastructure projects in the region.

As security teams moved toward the hideouts, the suspects opened fire, triggering a heavy exchange. During the encounter, three militants were killed. One of them was identified as Noor Islam, also known as Salman or Khog Bacha, a local commander who carried a bounty of Rs5 million. Another suspect remains unidentified, while one reportedly blew himself up to avoid capture.

Officials said the militants used rocket-propelled grenades and automatic weapons to resist arrest and help their accomplices escape. Security forces responded with retaliatory fire and managed to push them back, preventing further damage.

However, the operation came at a heavy cost. Three police personnel — Lance Head Constables Maqbool Ahmed, Fida Hussain, and Saeedur Rehman — were martyred during the clash. An Elite Force official was also injured and is receiving medical treatment.

Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed said dismantling the network helped avert a possible threat to key installations and ongoing development projects. He praised the sacrifices of the fallen officers and said their bravery reflected the commitment of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police.

Security officials noted that militants in the region have previously targeted Chinese nationals working on infrastructure schemes, including projects linked to the Dasu hydropower site. Such attacks have raised concerns about the safety of strategic routes and foreign workers.

Following the clash, security forces launched a search operation in nearby areas to track down remaining suspects. Officials said the CTD operation in Shangla was part of ongoing efforts to eliminate militant threats and strengthen security across the province.