PESHAWAR, Jan 12 (APP/DNA):The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has killed eight terrorists, including two key commanders, during intelligence-based operations conducted over the last 24 hours in Peshawar, Khyber and Bannu districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to CTD officials on Monday, six dangerous terrorists affiliated with Fitna al-Khawarij were neutralized in successful operations in Peshawar and Khyber.

In Peshawar, three terrorists were killed near a graveyard during an operation carried out on the basis of intelligence information. In a separate action in Jamrud, CTD thwarted a planned attack on police, killing three terrorists during a timely operation.

In Bannu, two key commanders, Sohail alias Sangri and Ismail alias Usman, were killed in an intelligence-based operation. The terrorists were involved in IED attacks on police check posts and the Rescue 1122 building.

Weapons, identity cards and a TTP card were recovered from their possession, while a search operation is still ongoing.

Meanwhile, Bannu police successfully repelled an attack by Fitna al-Khawarij on Nala Kashu police post. Due to swift retaliatory action, the terrorists fled under the cover of darkness. Police confirmed that no loss of life or property occurred.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the CTD for foiling terrorist plans and lauded the department’s professional capabilities. He said CTD personnel eliminated eight Khawarij terrorists, including two highly wanted commanders and saluted the bravery of the officers involved. He added that CTD’s role in eliminating Khawarij elements from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is commendable.

The Inspector General of Police, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed also lauded the CTD’s timely and  befitting response to Khawarij and stated that targeted CTD operations foiled major terrorist plans.