Police foil attack on Shangla check post
Snowfall blankets Shangla (left). Traffic police direct traffic in Saddar, Peshawar (right). PHOTOS: EXPRESS
Police on Saturday foiled a terrorist attack on a police post in the far-flung area of Shangla district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa(K-P).
Terrorists had launched an attack on a police check post in the remote area of Shikolai. However, police personnel put up a strong defence, responding bravely to the assault. According to the police, both sides exchanged fire for an extended period but, fortunately, there were no casualties and the terrorists were forced to flee.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Zulfiqar Hameed highly commended the police personnel for their robust defence and announced a reward for their bravery.
Shangla police have consistently demonstrated exceptional courage and bravery in the face of terrorism.
Official sources told The Express Tribune that the terrorists had launched the late night attack on the police post at the Chouga police station using light and heavy weapons.
A heavy gunfight had then ensued between the police and terrorists which lasted for hours. Due to the timely and robust response from the police, however, the attackers had been forced to retreat, taking full advantage of the darkness.
During subsequent search operations, traces of the fleeing militants were found at multiple locations.
Police have proven themselves fully capable of dealing with any terrorist aggression, standing firm against such threats.
The IGP praised the bravery of the Shangla police personnel, stating that they were always prepared to respond to any terrorist attack.
He announced cash rewards and appreciation certificates for the personnel who had repelled the attack, recognizing their exceptional service.
On the other hand, Shangla District Police Officer (DPO) Shah Hassan and other police personnel escaped unhurt in a remote-controlled bomb attack on their vehicles in Doh Khawaro Shekulai Mor.
A private vehicle of a Special Branch and Elite Force was damaged in the blast. Police have cordoned off the entire area and launched a large-scale search and strike operation.
A Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU) inspection is underway to determine the nature of the explosion. The Malakand Division Deputy Inspector General (DIG) has also visited the scene and operations are underway under his leadership.