Four suspected militants were killed during a joint intelligence-based operation (IBO) carried out by Karak and Kohat police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Karak district, police officials said.

According to the Central Police Office (CPO), the operation was launched in the Khattak Dam area after security forces received intelligence about the presence of suspected militants. During the operation, the suspects allegedly opened fire on the police party, prompting a retaliatory response.

The CPO said four suspected militants were killed in the exchange of fire. Officials added that those killed were believed to be affiliated with the Commander Zahid group.

Police said the suspected militants were wanted in cases related to the killings of several police officers and personnel. Authorities are continuing efforts to confirm their identities and verify their criminal records.

The Central Police Office said the area has been cordoned off and a search operation is underway. It added that counterterrorism operations will continue without interruption until terrorism is eliminated from the province.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)