In a worrying development, militants associated with the extremist group Fitna al-Khawarij kidnapped 17 civilian workers in the Kabal Khel area of Lakki Marwat district on Thursday.
The workers, who were unarmed and carrying out routine tasks, were taken hostage for ransom by the attackers, Express News reported.
According to sources, the militants not only kidnapped the workers but also set fire to the vehicle of a local contractor in the area following the kidnapping. Civilian workers were reportedly seized for extortion purposes, with militants seeking ransom for their release.
However, prompt action by security and law enforcement resulted in the safe recovery of eight of the abducted workers. The search and rescue operation for the remaining hostages continues, with authorities determined to ensure their safe return.
Sources pointed out that the actions of militants in Pakistan, under the guise of religious extremism, are completely disconnected from the teachings of Islam and its values. The perpetrators of these heinous acts will be held accountable for their crimes, they added.
The security forces are determined to continue their efforts to protect the population and ensure the safety of civilians, with the aim of bringing to justice those responsible for these barbaric acts.
