At least nine Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorists were killed and eight others injured during a joint intelligence-based operation by the police and Tall Scouts in the Doaba area of Hangu district on Saturday.

The operation was launched in the early hours of the morning in Zargiri, Shinaori, and surrounding areas following credible intelligence reports regarding the presence of TTP operatives believed to be involved in recent terrorist activities.

According to a police spokesperson, four law enforcement personnel sustained injuries during the intense exchange of fire, including Hangu District Police Officer (DPO) Khalid Khan, Doaba Station House Officer (SHO) Nabi Khan, a security officer, and the in-charge of the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS).

All injured personnel were immediately shifted to medical facilities.

Kohat Regional Police Officer (RPO) Abbas Majeed Marwat told the media that two police and as many Frontier Corps (FC) vehicles came under attack during the joint operation in the Doaba area by the Hangu Police, Pakistan Army, and the Tall Scouts.

He confirmed that nine terrorists — reportedly foreign nationals — were killed, while at least four others were injured. The DPO, wing commander of the Tall Scouts, and the SHO were also injured in the exchange of fire. The DPO underwent surgery and is now in stable condition, the RPO confirmed.

The RPO further stated that police operations are often restricted in areas with dense public presence due to safety concerns. He urged the residents of Doaba, Tall, and surrounding areas to support the police in their efforts against terrorism.

He added that counterterrorism operations will continue daily until the region is cleared of all threats.

DSP Amjad Khan said a clearance operation is ongoing to ensure the area is fully secured and free of any remaining terrorist presence.

Hospital sources said DPO Khalid Khan had sustained four bullet injuries and was shifted to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Kohat. His condition is reported to be stable. SHO Nabi Khan received minor injuries and remains under observation.