President, PM strongly condemn terrorist attack on police check post in KP's Hangu

Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have strongly condemned the terrorist attack carried out by Fitna al-Khawarij on a police check post in Hangu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), describing the attack as a cowardly act against the country's security forces.

In a statement, President Zardari expressed profound sorrow over the martyrdom of DSP Diyar Khan and the other police officials who lost their lives in the attack.

He said the sacrifices rendered by the nation's courageous police officers and personnel were an invaluable national treasure, adding that those who embraced martyrdom while protecting Pakistan's peace would forever be remembered with honour.

The president reaffirmed the state's determination to eliminate terrorists operating with foreign support, along with those aiding and facilitating their activities.

He also prayed for the eternal peace of the martyrs, strength and patience for their grieving families, and the speedy recovery of those injured in the incident.

The president also praised the KP Police for their successful operation that resulted in the killing of the terrorists involved in the attack.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also strongly condemned the terrorist strike on the police check post in Hangu, expressing deep grief over the martyrdom of nine police personnel, including Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Diyar Khan.

The prime minister prayed that the fallen officers be granted the highest place in Jannah and conveyed his heartfelt condolences to their families, asking Allah to bless them with patience and courage during this difficult time. He also offered prayers for the swift recovery of the wounded personnel.

Appreciating the prompt and effective response of the KP Police, the prime minister commended the force for eliminating 15 Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists during the operation.

"The police have always served as the frontline force in the fight against terrorism," the prime minister said.

Reiterating the government's unwavering commitment, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan would continue its efforts with full resolve until terrorism in all its forms was completely eradicated from the country.

At least ten police officials, including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP), were martyred when heavily armed terrorists stormed the Khazina Banda police checkpost in KP’s Hangu district on Wednesday, District Police Officer (DPO) Tariq Habib confirmed.

The DPO said the attack also injured 28 police personnel, including DSP Mujahid Hussain, as security forces engaged the assailants in an intense gun battle.