Islamabad, Pakistan – In a deadly terrorist attack, nine policemen, including the deputy police chief, were killed and 28 others were injured, following a surprise attack by armed elements on a security checkpoint in the Hangu area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in northwestern Pakistan, late Wednesday evening.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack
A statement issued by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed said that the Khazina Banda checkpoint was attacked by what he called “Kharijite sedition,” the official term used by the state to refer to members of the banned Pakistani Taliban. He explained that the police officers stationed at the site responded immediately and bravely, and additional reinforcements were sent. However, the terrorists ambushed the supporting force, damaging an armored personnel carrier and triggering a fierce and prolonged gun battle. The Inspector General confirmed that the police officers fought with professionalism and great courage amidst heavy exchanges of fire, resulting in the deaths of fifteen terrorists and injuries to others. Nine security personnel were martyred, including Deputy Superintendent of Police Diyar Khan, and 28 others sustained injuries of varying severity.
Pakistan’s war on terror
Hamid emphasized that the morale of the provincial police and their leadership remains high and their resolve unwavering, affirming that the ongoing war to eradicate terrorism and cleanse every corner of the province will continue relentlessly. In a related incident, another police checkpoint in the Adizai area of Peshawar was attacked by gunmen. Police forces responded forcefully, forcing the attackers to flee without any casualties among the officers.
Widespread condemnation in Pakistan
On the official and political level, Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the attack, offering his deepest condolences to the families of the martyrs and wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded. As part of the official follow-up to the security situation, the Interior Minister met with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, where they discussed in detail the deteriorating security situation, particularly in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, fueled by the recent surge in terrorist attacks. President Zardari praised the immense sacrifices and courage displayed by the security forces and police, affirming the nation’s unwavering support for the armed forces in eradicating terrorism and achieving lasting peace throughout the country.
