A police officer embraced martyrdom and six of his colleagues sustained serious injuries on Monday when a suicide bomber targeted their vehicle in the Lakki Marwat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The attack underscores the persistent threat of terrorism in the region.
Details of the Cowardly Attack
According to details provided by Lakki Marwat District Police Officer's spokesman, Asif Hassan, the assailant struck a police mobile van from the Tajori police station. The spokesperson identified the fallen officer as Head Constable Alauddin, who lost his life in the line of duty.
Initial reports indicate that the bomber's accomplice managed to escape from the scene following the explosion. Security forces have launched a comprehensive search operation in the area to apprehend the fleeing suspect.
Nationwide Surge in Terrorist Activity
This incident is part of a disturbing rise in terrorist attacks across Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The violence has escalated since the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) unilaterally ended its ceasefire agreement with the government in November 2022.
Following the collapse of the truce, the TTP openly vowed to intensify its assaults on security forces, police personnel, and other law enforcement agencies. Just last week, three police officers were martyred during a terrorist attack on a checkpost in Hangu district, highlighting the continuous peril faced by frontline defenders.
Official Condemnation and Resolve
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi issued a strong condemnation of the Lakki Marwat suicide attack. He expressed profound grief over the martyrdom of Head Constable Alauddin and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
In his statement, Naqvi paid rich tribute to the sacrifice of the police officer, stating that the nation salutes his courage. He also prayed for the swift and complete recovery of the injured personnel.
The Minister was unequivocal in his resolve, asserting, "The cowardly acts of the Kharijite elements cannot shake the nation’s firm resolve against terrorism." He praised the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police for rendering "matchless sacrifices" in the protracted war against militancy and assured that these sacrifices will not be in vain. The government remains fully committed to the complete eradication of terrorism from the country.
