Police Peace Committee in Bannu launches operation against militants

BANNU: The Police Peace Committee on Saturday launched an operation titled “Operation Revenge of the Martyrs” in Bannu amid rising insecurity and militant violence in the district. The announcement was made during a grand protest meeting held at Police Lines Bannu, where committee members discussed the law-and-order situation, counter-terrorism measures, and public cooperation in detail. Speaking on the occasion, Peace Committee President Hazrat Ullah said operations against militants would continue with “full force” and the blood of police martyrs would not go unavenged. He emphasised that ensuring the protection of life and property was a shared responsibility of the police and the peace committee, adding that all available resources would be utilised for this purpose. The meeting reaffirmed the resolve that the public must support the police in restoring lasting peace in the district and warned that indiscriminate action would be taken against militants and their facilitators. The committee also announced that hujras and houses allegedly being used by militants would be reclaimed, while individuals suspected of maintaining links with militants would be required to clarify their position. It was further decided that the committee would remain completely non-political and that the public would be able to submit complaints regarding police conduct to the committee so that immediate steps could be taken for redress. The committee leaders reiterated their commitment to continue operations until the complete elimination of militants and to take every possible step for the restoration of peace in the district. Following the meeting, the committee reportedly launched operations in different areas of Bannu and claimed that several militants had been killed. The operation is ongoing. Police officials, however, have not yet issued any formal statement regarding the committee. Bannu district has been the scene of repeated security incidents in recent months, with both civili