Five policemen were killed in a targeted attack on a police mobile in the Amankot area of Gurguri, Karak, authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said on Tuesday.
According to the police, the attack occurred during routine patrolling, and all five cops were on board the vehicle when it came under fire.
The martyred cops have been identified as Shahid Iqbal, Safdar, Arif, Sami, and Mohammed Abrar. Their bodies have been shifted to the civil hospital.
District Police Officer (DPO) Saud Khan said that the attack site has been cordoned off and the police have launched an operation to apprehend those responsible.
Security patrols have been increased at sensitive locations across the district, and authorities have appealed to citizens to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi strongly condemned the attack and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives.
He paid tribute to the sacrifices rendered by slain officials and extended heartfelt condolences to their families.
The governor described the attack as a deeply regrettable and inhumane act, vowing that those targeting law enforcement personnel will not be spared.
He assured that the sacrifices of police officers for maintaining peace will not go in vain, and that the government and security agencies will continue operations against terrorist attacks.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday condemned the firing incident on a police vehicle in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Karak district, which resulted in the martyrdom of five police personnel.
The prime minister expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of precious lives and offered prayers for the elevation of the ranks of the martyred officers, a Prime Minister’s Office news release said.
He also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the government’s full support during this difficult time.
The prime minister paid tribute to the sacrifices of the police force, stating that police personnel have always played a frontline role in the war against terrorism and have rendered unparalleled services to ensure peace and security in the country.
“Entire nation salutes the martyrs who laid down their lives in the line of duty,” the prime minister said, adding that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
Reiterating the government’s resolve, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasised that Pakistan remains fully committed to the complete elimination of terrorism in all its forms.