Security Forces Clash with Militants in Barkhan, Communication Tower Destroyed; Hospitals Declare Emergency

Barkhan: A firefight broke out between security forces and militants in the Lehma Zareen area of Barkhan, prompting a large-scale search and clearance operation by the Frontier Corps (FC), officials said.

Following the incident, all hospitals in the district have been placed under emergency, with medical staff put on high alert to handle any possible casualties. Authorities also closed the Barkhan–Nahar Kot highway as a precautionary measure, while security forces tightened checkpoints at all entry and exit points of the city.

Officials reported that intermittent firing continued in the area, creating panic among local residents. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary movement until the situation is brought under control.

In a separate incident, unidentified armed men targeted a Ufone communication tower in the Takhar area of Barkhan, completely destroying it after first opening indiscriminate fire and later setting it ablaze in Basti Rehman Badhani.

The destruction of the tower has disrupted mobile and internet services in the region, leaving residents without basic communication facilities. Eyewitnesses said the attackers fled under the cover of darkness after completing the assault.

District administration and police teams reached the site shortly after the incident, launching a search operation to apprehend those responsible. Authorities say efforts are underway to restore order and re-establish communication services in the affected areas.