Seven cops missing, one martyred in K-P
K-P police says search for attackers still on as security personnel deploy a heavy contingent to cordon off area. PHOTO: EXPRESS/FILE
At least seven police personnel, including a sub-inspector, have gone missing in two separate incidents in Upper South Waziristan, officials confirmed on Saturday.
According to District Police Officer (DPO) Arshad Khan, three constables from Laddah Police Station disappeared while on routine patrol in the area. The missing officers have been identified as Insaaf, Abid, and Ismail.
In a separate incident, four personnel from Sarwakai Police Station also went missing from the Tanga Chagmalai area. Among them are Sub-Inspector Abdul Khaliq, and constables Irfanullah, Habibullah, and Imran.
"The whereabouts of the missing policemen remain unknown at this stage. Search operations are underway," DPO Arshad Khan told The Express Tribune. Further updates will follow as the situation develops.
Meanwhile, a police constable was martyred after unidentified assailants opened fire at Niazi Market in Bara, Khyber District on Sunday.
According to officials, the constable sustained critical injuries in the attack and succumbed to his wounds while being shifted to Peshawar for medical treatment.
Initial investigations suggest the possibility of personal enmity as a motive, though police have not ruled out other angles. The assailants fled the scene following the shooting. Police have launched a formal investigation into the incident.
Meanwhile, funeral prayer of police constable Fazal Rehman was offered with full official honors at Khyber Police Lines, Shakas.
The ceremony was attended by District Police Officer (DPO) Khyber, Rai Mazhar Iqbal; SP Investigation, Rohul Amin; family members of the martyred officer; local dignitaries; and several other police officers and personnel.
A smartly turned-out police contingent presented a guard of honor, while senior officers laid floral wreaths on the martyr's coffin and paid glowing tributes to his sacrifice.
DPO Rai Mazhar Iqbal praised Fazal Rehman's dedication and service, describing him as a dutiful, brave, and honest officer who consistently protected the lives and property of citizens without regard for his own safety. "His supreme sacrifice will always be remembered," he said.