DSP among several police personnel martyred in Kohat terrorist attack

KOHAT, Tuesday: At least seven people, including six police officials, were martyred in a terrorist attack on a police mobile van in Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The attack took place on Shakardara Road in a remote area on Tuesday.

Police officials said armed militants opened fire on the police van without warning. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Asad Mehmood was among those martyred on the spot. Two other policemen also embraced martyrdom at the scene.

Two civilians who were passing through the area were caught in the firing and sustained injuries.

Later, three injured policemen and one civilian succumbed to their wounds, raising the death toll to seven. Three other policemen and one civilian remain under treatment at a nearby hospital. Doctors say their condition is being closely monitored.

After the attack, the terrorists set the police vehicle on fire and fled the area. Security forces cordoned off the site and launched a search operation to trace the attackers.

Interior Minister Condemns Attack

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the terrorist attack. He paid tribute to DSP Asad Mehmood and the martyred police personnel. He said the officers sacrificed their lives in the line of duty and defended the nation with bravery.

The minister expressed condolences to the families of the martyrs. He assured them that the government stands with them in this difficult time. He added that the sacrifices of the fallen officers will always be remembered.

Rising Terror Incidents in KP

Terror incidents have increased in areas bordering Afghanistan, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. A day earlier, three personnel of the Federal Constabulary were martyred in a terrorist attack in Karak district.

Security forces have also carried out intelligence-based operations in different parts of KP and Balochistan. Several militants were killed in recent operations in Dera Ismail Khan and Pishin.

Officials say cross-border militancy has risen since 2021. Pakistan has repeatedly urged Afghan authorities to prevent the use of their soil against Pakistan.

Border Tensions and Security Operations

In recent months, Pakistan has conducted targeted strikes against militant hideouts along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Security sources said several militant camps were destroyed in these operations.

Tensions between Islamabad and Kabul have increased due to repeated attacks on Pakistani security forces. Despite talks, both sides have struggled to restore full calm along the border.

The Kohat attack adds to the growing security concerns in the region. Authorities have vowed to continue operations until those responsible are brought to justice.