Lakki Marwat Police foil kidnapping attempt, rescue three hostages

In a commendable display of bravery, Lakki Marwat police successfully thwarted a kidnapping attempt by terrorists in the Landewa Gorabai area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday. The operation resulted in the rescue of three abducted individuals, the elimination of two terrorists, and minor injuries to a police officer. 

According to Khanzala Khan, spokesperson for the Bannu Regional Police Officer, the police launched an immediate search operation upon receiving information about the abduction. During the ensuing encounter, the terrorists opened fire, injuring a policeman. However, the police team, led by the Deputy Superintendent of Police, responded effectively, rescuing the hostages and neutralizing two terrorists on the spot.

The operation underscores the escalating security challenges in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. According to the Global Terrorism Index 2025, Pakistan has become the second-most terrorism-affected country globally, with a 45% increase in terrorism-related fatalities, rising from 748 in 2023 to 1,081 in 2024. The number of terrorist attacks also more than doubled, from 517 incidents in 2023 to 1,099 in 2024.

The rise in violence is attributed to the influence of the Afghan Taliban and the operations of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has emerged as the fastest-growing terrorist group, with a 90% increase in attributed deaths.

Despite these challenges, the successful operation in Lakki Marwat highlights the dedication and effectiveness of Pakistan’s security forces in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of its citizens.