Two policemen were martyred on Wednesday after unknown assailants opened fire on them in Kulachi, a neighbourhood in Dera Ismail Khan district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
According to details, the police constables were out to buy groceries when they were ambushed by terrorists. In response, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) launched an operation, cordoning off the area and pursuing the attackers.
At last, the security forces surrounded the terrorists. Upon sensing danger, they opened fire on the law-enforcers. In the ensuing exchange, one terrorist was killed while two of his accomplices — reportedly injured — managed to escape.
The search is underway to apprehend the fugitives.
The funeral prayers of police constables Ghulam Muhammad and Shehzad were held with full official honours at Police Lines Dera Ismail Khan.
According to a police spokesman, Commissioner Dera Division Zafarul Islam Khattak, Regional Police Officer (RPO) Dera Syed Ashfaq Anwar, District Police Officer (DPO) Dera Sajjad Ahmad Sahibzada, senior officials, and the martyrs' families attended the funeral.
A police contingent presented a salute to the martyred cops, as floral wreaths were laid on their coffins. Special prayers were offered for the elevation of their ranks in the hereafter.
RPO Dera Syed Ashfaq Anwar said that the sacrifice of the police martyrs is a source of pride for the entire force. He said their blood will not go in vain, and strict action will be taken against those responsible.
"One of the terrorists involved in the attack was killed during the exchange of fire, while two others were injured. Comprehensive search and strike operations are actively underway to track down and arrest the remaining culprits. We are determined to bring all those responsible to justice at the earliest," the RPO added.
He further assured the families that the police department stands firmly with them and will provide all possible support.
Meanwhile, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi strongly condemned the firing incident in Kulachi, Dera Ismail Khan.
In a statement, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and paid glowing tribute to the martyred officers.
He said the sacrifices of police personnel in the line of duty are a beacon of courage and dedication, and their role in maintaining peace and order will never be forgotten.
Governor Kundi extended heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the families of the martyred police officers, praying for the elevation of their ranks in Jannat and patience for their grieving families.
"The sacrifices of police martyrs in the war against terrorism are countless and invaluable," he remarked. "We share the grief of the bereaved families and stand with them in this difficult time."
He emphasized that the sacrifices made by the police force will not go in vain and reaffirmed the government's resolve to continue the fight against terrorism with unwavering determination. (With input from APP)
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