DI KHAN: At least 16 militants of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were killed in a successful intelligence-based operation by Special Services Group (SSG) commandos and Pakistan Army troops in Kot Sultan, Dera Ismail Khan, security officials confirmed on Tuesday.
According to security officials, the operation targeted the Sher Ali group, a TTP faction responsible for attacks across southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The group had been using mud compounds and temporary shelters in the area while reportedly regrouping for future attacks.
When security forces moved in, the militants opened fire, leading to a fierce gunbattle. Troops responded with precision, killing 16 militants linked to the group’s commander. Two others were injured and taken into custody for interrogation.
Sources said the operation is part of a focused counter-terrorism push across DI Khan, Tank, and Lakki Marwat, where TTP remnants have been relocating after sustained pressure in other districts.
The area was later secured, with weapons, ammunition, and communication equipment recovered from the militants.
Earlier on Tuesday morning a fierce exchange of fire between the militants and security forces took place in the jurisdiction of Topi Police Station, Swabi.
The gun battle resulted in the killing of two militants associated with the banned TTP (Fitna al-Khawarij).
The slain militants were identified as Yasir and Saud ur Rehman alias Suwaid, both known as active members of the militant organisation.
Police confirmed that these two terrorists were responsible for the hand-grenade attack on the Kalabat check-post, an assault that led to the martyrdom of Constable Noor Kamal Shah.
