At least 12 police officers have been killed and several others injured after militants launched a coordinated attack on a security checkpoint in northwestern Pakistan.

The incident occurred in the Fateh Khel area of Bannu district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where attackers first drove an explosives-laden vehicle into a police post, triggering a powerful explosion.

Shortly after the blast, armed militants reportedly stormed the checkpoint and opened fire on officers stationed there.

Security officials said the attackers also used drones during the assault, adding to the intensity of the attack.

Authorities confirmed that at least five officers sustained injuries, while one person is still missing following the incident.

The assailants were also said to have fled with weapons and possibly abducted some police personnel during their escape.

Security operations have since been launched in the area as forces search for the attackers.

The region has experienced repeated militant attacks in recent years, especially in areas close to the border.

Pakistan has often accused armed groups operating from across the border of involvement in such incidents, a claim denied by the Afghan Taliban authorities.