A deadly terrorist attack in Kohat has claimed the lives of six police officers and personnel, including Lachi DSP Asad Mahmood.

The attack took place on Shakardara Road in Lachi tehsil, where more than 20 armed men opened fire on a police vehicle, triggering a fierce exchange of fire.

According to police sources, the attackers targeted DSP Asad Mahmood while he was passing through Shakardara Road. The district police officer (DPO) confirmed that DSP Mahmood and two of his bodyguards were martyred in the terrorist firing.

Initial reports said four policemen, including the DSP and an ASI, had embraced martyrdom. However, the total number of martyred police officers and personnel later rose to six.

Exchange of fire, suspect killed

More than 20 armed assailants reportedly opened indiscriminate fire on the police van. Police retaliated, resulting in an exchange of fire between the attackers and security personnel.

During the crossfire, a detained suspect who was in police custody was also killed. Additional police personnel reached the scene shortly after the attack.

The bodies of the martyred policemen were shifted to Lachi Hospital, according to the DPO. A heavy police force has been deployed in the area, and a search operation has been launched to track down the attackers.

The tragic incident drew strong condemnation from provincial authorities. Special Assistant to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Information, Shafi Jan, condemned the terrorists’ firing on the police vehicle and reiterated the provincial government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism.

Chief minister takes notice

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi took immediate notice of the incident and strongly condemned the attack. He sought a detailed report from the inspector general of police regarding the martyrdom of police personnel.

Calling the incident “extremely sad,” the CM said the sacrifices of the martyrs would not go in vain. He emphasized that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police are the first line of defense against terrorism and that their sacrifices are unforgettable.

“The cowardly acts of terrorists cannot shake the resolve of the police,” he stated.

The CM also directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical facilities for the injured and prayed for their speedy recovery.