Pakistan: Search operation underway in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Hangu District after fatal attack at natural gas and oil production facility May 23

Event

Officials have launched a search operation in Hangu District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, to apprehend the suspects in an attack that left six security personnel killed at the Hungarian-owned MOL Pakistan Oil and Gas Company facility. Authorities estimate up to 50 armed assailants stormed the facility and opened fire at security personnel stationed at the site. No group has claimed immediate responsibility for the attack. The shooting incident prompted the temporary suspension of the plant. Reports indicate the assailants have fled to nearby North Waziristan District.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture near the affected locations and may implement enhanced measures, such as road blockades and vehicular checks, depending on the severity of the perceived threat. Demonstrations denouncing the incident may occur over the coming days; such gatherings typically attract thousands of peaceful participants along thoroughfares in various provincial urban centers. Isolated skirmishes between police and activists may occur. Further similar militant attacks cannot be ruled out.

Hangu District is located approximately 69 km (43 miles) southwest of Peshawar.

Context

The terrorism threat remains high in Pakistan. On Nov. 28, 2022, the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) called off a ceasefire with the Pakistani government. TTP leaders have since exhorted their members to carry out nationwide attacks in retaliation for ongoing security operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The TTP, which is an organizationally distinct group from the Afghan Taliban, has been fighting an insurgency against Pakistani forces in Pashtun-dominated areas of the country's northwest along the Afghan frontier since at least 2007.

Advice

Strictly avoid the affected areas until authorities have contained the situation and given the all-clear. Carry proper identification documents at all times. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Heed all official transport and security advisories.