HANGU: In a major counter-terrorism operation in the Shinawari-Zargari area of Hangu district, five terrorists were gunned down, while District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Khalid was injured during a heavy exchange of fire.
According to officials, DPO Khalid, who hails from Chitral, was leading the operation when he sustained three gunshot wounds.
He was first shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital, and later airlifted to Peshawar for specialized medical treatment. His condition is reported to be out of danger.
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi called DPO Khalid to inquire about his condition and commend his bravery.
“Under your leadership, the police team showed remarkable courage and eliminated five terrorists,” the minister said, calling the operation a significant blow to terrorism. He praised the entire Hangu police team for their swift and decisive response.
“You are the pride of the nation. We salute your dedication and bravery,” he added.
SHO Duaba Police Station Nabi Khan was also injured in the clash and is receiving treatment.
The Hangu police spokesperson confirmed that five militants were neutralized during the operation. A curfew has been imposed in the area as joint forces from the police and Frontier Corps (FC) conduct a large-scale search and clearance operation.
Speaking to the media, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General Zulfiqar Hameed stated: “DPO Muhammad Khalid is stable and in high spirits. Our fight against terrorism will continue with full force.”
Security has been tightened across Hangu, with multiple checkpoints and law enforcement units deployed at sensitive locations.