LOWER DIR: Six militants were killed during an intelligence-based operation carried out by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in Lower Dir, officials said on Tuesday.

According to CTD officials, the operation was launched after intelligence reports indicated the presence of militants in the area. Security personnel surrounded the suspected hideout, triggering an exchange of fire with the militants.

Officials said the slain militants were allegedly involved in multiple terrorist activities in the region and had been under surveillance for their suspected involvement in militancy.

During the operation, security forces recovered six Kalashnikov rifles and three hand grenades from the militants. The recovered weapons have been taken into custody for further investigation.

Officials said some militants managed to escape during the gun battle, while a search and clearance operation is continuing in nearby areas to trace and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the Counter Terrorism Department and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police for successfully carrying out the operation.

In a statement, the interior minister commended the professionalism and coordination displayed by the security personnel, saying the operation reflected the continued commitment of law enforcement agencies to maintaining peace and stability.

He added that such actions help disrupt the activities of militant groups seeking to destabilise the country.