President, PM condemn Kohat attack that left 10 policemen martyred

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday condemned a terrorist attack in Kohat that left 10 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) police personnel martyred, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).

In separate statements, both leaders expressed grief over the loss of lives, paid tribute to the martyred personnel and extended condolences to their bereaved families.

President Zardari said the sacrifices made by the KP Police in the fight against terrorism were a source of pride for the entire nation. He said such attacks could not weaken the country’s resolve to eliminate terrorism.

The president also acknowledged the services and sacrifices of police and other law enforcement personnel in protecting the lives and property of citizens. He wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the attack.

Prime Minister Shehbaz paid tribute to the 10 policemen, including DSP Haider Zaman, who lost their lives while fighting the attackers in the Darra Bokak area of Kohat.

He said the police personnel had demonstrated courage, dedication and commitment by sacrificing their lives for the country’s peace and security. He also described them as national heroes.

The prime minister said the killing of 18 terrorists during the police operation reflected the KP Police’s professional capabilities, bravery and determination in the fight against terrorism.

According to the Director Public Relations of the KP Police, 18 terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij were killed during an exchange of fire with police in Kohat district.

The police said the incident occurred after a police contingent completed an operation against elements involved in illegal gold mining in Darabokach, near Kohat, in coordination with the local civil administration.

As the contingent was returning, terrorists acting at the behest of criminal elements attacked the police party. The police repulsed the attack, killing 18 terrorists, while 10 police personnel were killed during the encounter.

The police stated that criminal elements and terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij maintained organised links and had coordinated the attack. It warned that facilitators of the terrorist group and criminal networks would not be spared.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said criminal elements and terrorists were attempting to spread unrest in the country, adding that they would not be allowed to achieve their objectives.

He said the entire nation stood alongside security forces and law enforcement agencies in the fight against terrorism, adding that the government would not compromise on the country’s peace and stability and remained committed to eliminating terrorism.