Two children killed, four injured in exchange of fire in Bajaur

BAJAUR: Two children were killed and four others injured during an exchange of fire between security forces and militants in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district on Thursday evening.

According to official sources, the clash took place in Wara Mamund tehsil when security forces were carrying out a search operation against suspected militants in the area. The sources said the gunbattle continued for some time, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to four others.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Niaz Muhammad confirmed the casualties while speaking to reporters. He said the injured children were shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Khar for medical treatment.

The DSP said the deceased and the injured belonged to the Malakana Dama Dola area.

Lawmakers condemn deaths

Awami National Party MPA Muhammad Nisar Baz Khan and PTI MPA Dr Hamidur Rehman condemned the killing of the children in the armed clash.

In social media posts, the two lawmakers expressed sympathy with the bereaved families and said such tragic incidents should be prevented in the future.

Hospital update

Sources at the District Headquarters Hospital in Khar said on Thursday night that most of the injured children were out of danger and were recovering after receiving treatment.

The incident occurred during an operation that official sources said was aimed at suspected militants in the area. No further details were provided in the report about the exchange of fire.

The casualties drew immediate political reaction in the district, with elected representatives publicly voicing concern over the deaths of children during the clash. The injured remained under treatment at the Khar hospital, where hospital sources said their condition had improved in most cases.

The exchange of fire in Wara Mamund tehsil added to concerns over the impact of armed confrontations on civilians, particularly children, in conflict-affected areas of Bajaur. Officials and hospital sources confirmed the deaths and injuries, while local lawmakers called for steps to avoid such incidents in the future.