BANNU: Police claimed that 12 militants were killed in retaliatory action during May 9 suicide attack on Fatehkhel checkpost in Bannu while a total of 17 militants were eliminated in various operations so far.

According to a statement issued on Sunday from the office of regional police officer, police launched a counterattack despite sustaining injuries in the suicide attack, resulting in the killing of 12 militants.

It said that the bodies of the slain attackers were taken away by their accomplices.

Investigative agencies have confirmed that four of the militants were buried in Shakai area of South Waziristan while two others were buried in Wazir Khoniyakhel subdivision of Bannu. Intelligence agencies, Counter-Terrorism Department and other investigation teams are making efforts to identify the remaining militants and trace their possible hideouts and burial locations.

During intelligence-based operations conducted on Saturday, five more militants were killed including Hayatullah, who allegedly prepared the rickshaw used in the suicide attack, and Maulana Saddam, a resident of Sam Toi in South Waziristan.

Police officials said that attackers used heavy explosives in the beginning, however, officials stationed at Fatehkhel checkpost showed exceptional bravery and professionalism, successfully repelling the attack and inflicting heavy losses on militants.

Injured head constable Feroz Khan, constable Hayatullah and constable Fidaullah continued fighting courageously until the last moment despite severe injuries, they claimed.

According to police, militant Hayatullah, son of Khan Gul, killed in a recent operation, was a close associate of the alleged mastermind of the attack, Zargul alias Uncle and played a central role in preparing the suicide vehicle.

Bannu RPO Sajjad Khan said that the sacrifices of brave police personnel were a matter of pride for the entire force. He said that operations against militant elements would continue with full strength and professionalism to ensure lasting peace in the region.

Bannu DPO Yasir Afridi paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of injured policemen.

He said that Bannu police stood an iron wall against terrorism and remained committed to protecting the lives and properties of people at all costs.

Published in Dawn, May 18th, 2026