Five cops killed, two injured in attack on police camp in Ghotki

PPP co-chair and FM Bilawal recognises 'unparalleled' sacrifices made by Sindh police

KARACHI:

A group of armed bandits attacked the police in the Kacha area of Ronti, Ghotki, on Saturday night, killing five cops and leaving two injured.

According to DIG Javed Jaskani, a police camp was set up in Kacha for an operation to recover hostages in the area.

More than 150 dacoits attacked the police post, killing five policemen including a DSP and two SHOs.

DSP Abdul Malik Bhutto, SHO Abdul Malik Kamangar, SHO Deen Muhammad Leghari and two police constables, Saleem Chachadar and Jatoi Patafi were killed in the attack.

"After the attack, heavy firing has taken place from both sides," said DIG Jaskani, adding that a "heavy contingent" of police has been dispatched to Kacha.

He maintained that the operation to recover the hostages in the area is ongoing.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari condemned the attack on the police.

He expressed his regret over the martyrdom of the police personnel and gave his deepest condolences.

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Bilawal said that he saluted all those martyred in the incident and prayed for the speedy recovery of SHO Ghulam Ali Brohi and other officials who were injured in the attack.

The foreign minister expressed his solidarity, saying "I am an equal participant in the grief of the martyrs' families".

He recognised the "unparalleled" sacrifices made by the Sindh police to provide security to the lives and property of citizens and to maintain peace and order in the region.

He expressed confidence that the accused involved in the incident would be held accountable.

Sindh Chief Secretary Dr Muhammad Sohail Rajput also expressed grief and his condolences to the families of the martyred personnel.

He said he prayed for the "high status of the martyrs" and the speedy recovery of those injured.

"All facilities are being provided to the police to restore law and order," assured the chief secretary.