3 suspects killed in police encounters in NW Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- Three leaders of a notorious criminal gang were killed in police encounters in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Thursday, authorities said.

According to the police, special operations teams carried out coordinated actions in the suburbs of the capital city Peshawar, targeting the gang's network.

The group was wanted in 34 serious criminal cases, including the killing of police personnel, extortion, and land grabbing. Police said the suspects were killed during gunfights.

Authorities added that search operations are ongoing to apprehend any remaining accomplices. "Peshawar police remain fully committed to ensuring the safety and protection of citizens," the statement added. ■