PM condemns D.I. Khan police attack; Lahore on high alert

WEB DESK: A deadly bomb blast targeting a police mobile in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has triggered a nationwide wave of condemnation and prompted immediate security reinforcements in major cities. The attack, which resulted in the martyrdom of three police personnel, has drawn unified political denunciation and a vow to bring the perpetrators to justice.

In Lahore, authorities moved swiftly to prevent any potential spillover of violence. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Faisal Kamran placed the provincial capital on high alert, issuing directives to fortify the city’s security apparatus. The measures include intensified vehicle and pedestrian checks at all entry and exit points, with orders for personnel to conduct thorough inspections while ensuring their own safety.

The security posture across Lahore has been significantly elevated. Police patrols and surveillance have been increased, and specialised rapid-response units, including the Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU), and Peru Force, have been placed on maximum alert. Additional deployments have been made around sensitive public locations, major markets, and critical installations. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Political leadership across the spectrum united in condemnation. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi expressed profound grief over the martyrdom of the officers, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector. “Our police, despite limited resources, are fighting terrorism on the frontlines,” Afridi stated, assuring the force of his government’s full support. He vowed that the sacrifices “will not go in vain” and promised comprehensive support for the bereaved families.

PM Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack, expressing deep sorrow and praying for the martyrs’ families. He directed authorities to provide the best medical care to an injured officer and reaffirmed the state’s unwavering resolve. “We will continue the war against terrorism until it is completely eliminated from the country,” the Prime Minister declared, ordering that the perpetrators be identified and brought to exemplary justice.

Earlier in October 2025, a police training centre in Dera Ismail Khan came under attack by a group of seven to eight heavily armed terrorists. During the assault, one attacker detonated a suicide vest near the facility. Security forces had responded with retaliatory fire, killing two other assailants. District Police Officer Sajjad Ahmed reported that the attackers were equipped with Indian-made weapons. Following intense exchanges, the area was cordoned off and a clearance operation was launched. This incident occurred shortly after a separate intelligence-based operation in the same district had resulted in the deaths of 13 terrorists.