PESHAWAR (Kashmir English): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has killed five suspected militants, including a high-value target, during an intelligence-based operation in the Urmar area of Peshawar, officials said.
According to the CTD, the suspects linked to IS-KP were hiding in a compound near the Kabul English Language Center and were allegedly planning attacks on sensitive installations, Imambargahs and churches.
The operation was launched after intelligence confirmed their presence at the location. CTD personnel surrounded the compound and came under fire when they entered, triggering an exchange of gunfire in which all five suspects were killed.
Drones were used to monitor the operation, while the Bomb Disposal Unit and forensic teams examined the site. The CTD said it recovered an SMG, four pistols, two hand grenades, five magazines, an IED and ammunition.
Two of the deceased were identified as Imran Dilawar Khan, a resident of Bajaur, and Shahidullah, son of Meraj, from Upper Mohmand. Identification of the remaining suspects is under way.
High-Value Target Wanted in Terror Cases
The CTD identified Imran, also known by the aliases Abdullah, Bilal and Abu Bakr, as a proclaimed offender wanted in around 20 terrorism cases involving bombings and targeted killings.
According to the department, he was allegedly involved in attacks on police and security forces, the killings of Maulana Khanzeb and Senator Hidayatullah, and the killing of Rehanzeb.
The CTD further alleged that Imran masterminded the February 6, 2026 suicide attack on an Imambargah in Tarlai, Islamabad, while Shahidullah allegedly conducted reconnaissance of the target. The government had announced a Rs12 million reward for information leading to Imran’s arrest or whereabouts, the department said.
A search and clearance operation is continuing in the area, while further legal proceedings are under way. KP Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed and the Additional IG CTD praised the personnel involved and reaffirmed their commitment to preventing terrorist activities in the province.
