An attempt to ambush a security forces’ convoy in North Waziristan’s Mir Ali district was thwarted, security sources said on Thursday. According to security sources, Fitna al Khawarij militants attempted to attack a convoy on the main highway. Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). They said the incident occurred when the convoy was passing through a populated area. Militants linked to Fitna al Khawarij attempted to ambush the security convoy near a residential locality, they said, adding that security forces responded swiftly, thwarting the attack. After the failed attempt, the attackers fled the scene, they said, adding that security forces had cordoned off the area and launched a search operation. They further said that an exchange of fire had been reported between security forces and the militants, while security in the area had been placed on high alert. Security sources also dismissed what they called malicious rumours being spread about the incident on social media. They asserted that security forces had full control of the situation and were taking all possible measures to ensure the safety of the lives and property of local residents. In October, four terrorists were killed by the security forces, foiling a suicide attack on a military camp in Mir Ali. Earlier this month, unidentified militants blew up a government primary school in Mir Ali, jeopardising the future of more than 600 school-going children. Days later, a government school in the same district with over 250 enrolled girls was destroyed with explosives.