In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu district, a successful intelligence-based operation (IBO) resulted in the deaths of two terrorists, including a key figure wanted in connection with the killing of four CTD officials in April 2025. The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) reported that the operation, conducted on Thursday, targeted individuals linked to the banned organization Fitna-al-Khawarij, the term used by Pakistani authorities to describe the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). During the operation, the terrorists attempted to flee, initiating an exchange of fire with CTD and police forces. Following a 25-minute engagement, two dead bodies were discovered, both identified as originating from Bannu. Recovered from the slain individuals were two Kalashnikovs, six magazines, 23 rounds, two hand grenades, and two cards belonging to the banned TTP. The operation follows a period of increased terrorist activity in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, following the TTP’s termination of a ceasefire with the government in November 2022. Simultaneously, security forces in Dera Ismail Khan district reported the martyrdom of a major and the killing of seven terrorists during an IBO. These incidents underscore ongoing security challenges within the region. Further investigation and pursuit of escaped accomplices are underway.