The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced a thorough investigation into the alleged civilian casualties that occurred during an anti-terror operation in Katlang, Mardan, with Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur expressing condemnation over the tragic loss of innocent lives.

KP government spokesperson Barrister Dr Saif issued a video statement on Monday. He said the chief minister, Ali Amin Gandapur, had made it clear that while eliminating terrorists remains a priority**, the **deaths of innocent civilians are both unfortunate and unacceptable.

Dr. Saif stated that several successful operations had been conducted in the Katlang region against high-profile terrorists, including Mohsin Baqir and Abbas, who were eliminated in previous crackdowns. He also highlighted the sacrifice of police officer Ejaz Khan, who was martyred in the same area while fighting terrorism.

He said CM Gandapur has directed a comprehensive investigation into the tragic civilian casualties, ensuring that all aspects of the incident are examined and facts are brought to light. The provincial government has committed to sharing its findings transparently and taking appropriate action based on the investigation, said the spokesperson.

Expressing deep condolences to the families of the victims, the chief minister has assured them that they will not be left alone and that the government will provide full financial assistance to support them during this difficult time.

Dr. Saif criticized the federal government, stating that KP authorities were not informed about the operation in advance. He revealed that local police officials, including the DPO and DIG, were completely unaware of the raid, highlighting a serious lapse in communication and coordination between the federal and provincial administrations.

“This lack of coordination is deeply concerning, as it can jeopardize anti-terror efforts and damage public trust,” said Dr. Saif, urging the federal government to ensure better communication with KP authorities in future counterterrorism operations.

He also condemned the use of civilian populations as shields by terrorists, labeling such tactics as cowardly and inhumane.

Dr. Saif expressed disappointment over Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s failure to mention the innocent women and children killed in the incident, stating that this insensitivity has deeply hurt the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

“This is not the time for political theatrics but for unity and collective resolve against terrorism,” he stressed.

Moving forward, the KP government has vowed to analyze the operational shortcomings of the incident and ensure that such mistakes are not repeated. Dr. Saif warned that no future operation will be allowed in KP without proper coordination with provincial authorities.

The KP government remains committed to eradicating terrorism but insists that civilian safety must never be compromised in the process.