Counter-Terrorism Breakthrough: TTP Commander Eliminated, Domel Ambush Foiled in Bannu

BANNU — In a major blow to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), security forces neutralized a high-ranking commander during a two-day Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) in the Bakakhel area. Simultaneously, police in the Domel region successfully repelled a brazen ambush on a patrol vehicle, killing two additional militants in a high-stakes encounter on Monday, January 26, 2026.

The Bakakhel Operation: Fall of TTP Commander “Ijaz”

• The Target: Ghafoor alias Ijaz, a resident of North Waziristan and a key active commander of the TTP.
• The Mission: A two-day intensive operation in the Bakakhel and Takhtikhel areas.
• Outcome: Commander Ijaz was killed after “fierce resistance” from the militants.
• Casualties: Two security personnel sustained injuries during the gunfight and are currently receiving medical treatment.
• Significance: Security sources describe Ijaz as an “important asset” involved in multiple high-profile terrorist activities across the district.

Key Witnesses Identify Ambush Tactics in Domel

While the Bakakhel operation was concluding, a separate crisis unfolded in the Domel area. A police patrol vehicle was targeted in a pre-planned ambush by militants lying in wait.

• The Standoff: The police party engaged in a heavy exchange of fire for approximately 20 minutes, successfully holding their ground until reinforcements—including an Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) and Quick Response Force (QRF)—arrived from Police Lines Bannu.
• Evidence Recovered: Following the search operation, the bodies of two unidentified terrorists were recovered along with a significant cache of automatic weapons and ammunition.
• Police Resolve: RPO Sajjad Khan and DPO Yasir Afridi lauded the Domel police for their “timely and effective” response, which prevented any police casualties during the high-intensity firefight.

Security Concerns: Sabotage of Khaisur Bridge

Amidst the tactical successes, a disturbing attempt at infrastructure sabotage was reported in Miryan Tehsil. In the early hours of Monday morning, terrorists detonated explosives at the Khaisur Bridge.

• The Damage: The explosion caused partial damage to the bridge structure.
• The Motive: Security analysts believe the attack was aimed at disrupting supply lines and the movement of security forces in the region.
• NCCIA Involvement: Authorities are investigating digital leads to determine if the bridge attack was coordinated with the Domel ambush to create a district-wide security vacuum.

Next Court Date and Expectations

Following the recovery of the bodies and weapons:

• Identification: The bodies of the two terrorists killed in Domel have been moved to a local morgue for biometric verification and DNA testing.
• Legal Filing: A formal FIR has been lodged at the Domel and Miryan police stations under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA).
• Forensic Analysis: Recovered weapons are being sent for ballistic testing to see if they match casings found at previous attack sites in North Waziristan.

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