Deadly Attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Claim Lives of Security Personnel

 Two separate terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday claimed the lives of five security personnel, leaving several others injured, underscoring the region's deteriorating security situation.

IED Attack in Dera Ismail Khan

In the first incident, an improvised explosive device (IED) targeted a security forces’ vehicle in the Zarkani area of Daraban tehsil, Dera Ismail Khan. The attack resulted in the martyrdom of three personnel—Ashfaq, Mukhtiar Wali, and Arif—while two others, Farzand and Sami, sustained injuries.

The injured were swiftly transported to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Dera Ismail Khan. Following the explosion, a heavy contingent of police and security forces cordoned off the area and launched search operations. However, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, did not immediately confirm the incident.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi condemned the attack, expressing concern over the province's worsening security situation. He criticized the provincial government for its alleged inaction, describing it as a “mere spectator” amidst the rising violence. In a statement, the governor termed the attack a conspiracy against Pakistan, Islam, and humanity, and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured.

Coordinated Attack in Shangla

The second attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, when armed militants launched a coordinated assault on a police checkpoint in the Gunangar area of Chakesar tehsil, Shangla district. The attackers, armed with heavy weapons including rocket launchers and grenades, martyred two police personnel and injured three others.

According to Shangla District Police Officer (DPO) Imran Khan, Constable Nisar Ahmed was martyred on the spot, while ASI Muhammad Hassan succumbed to his injuries at Battagram Hospital. The injured personnel—Arshad Iqbal, Arshad Ali, and Rafatullah—are currently receiving medical treatment.

DPO Imran Khan revealed that one militant was injured in retaliatory fire but managed to escape into the nearby mountains, leaving a trail of blood stains.

Honoring the Martyrs

Funeral prayers for the martyred personnel were held at Shangla Police Lines, attended by senior officials, including Deputy Commissioner Fawad Ahmed, MPA Mohammad Rashad Khan, and former senator Maulana Rahat Hussain. A police contingent presented a ceremonial salute to honor their sacrifices.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police (IGP) Akhtar Hayat Khan lauded the bravery of the fallen personnel, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. “The sacrifices of our brave men will not go in vain. We will ensure that those responsible for these heinous acts are held accountable,” he stated.

Public Outcry Against Militancy

In the aftermath of the attacks, residents and civil society members staged a protest at Alpuri Chowk, demanding immediate measures to restore peace and curb the resurgence of militancy in the district. Protesters warned of organizing sit-ins if decisive action was not taken to address the escalating violence.

Federal Minister Engineer Amir Muqam condemned the Shangla attack, describing it as a “cowardly act” meant to destabilize the nation. He paid tribute to the martyrs, stating, “These brave young men stand like a wall of steel against the enemy, and their sacrifices will only strengthen our resolve.”

Rising Concerns

These incidents mark a troubling resurgence of militancy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, heightening calls for stronger security measures and coordinated efforts to ensure peace in the region.