RAHIM YAR KHAN; At least five members of the Punjab Police’s Elite Force were martyred and two others injured in a deadly armed attack on a checkpost in the Katcha area of Rahim Yar Khan late Thursday night, police officials confirmed.
According to a Punjab police spokesperson, a group of heavily armed assailants launched a sudden assault on the Shekhani checkpost under the cover of darkness. An exchange of fire ensued, during which five officers were killed. One attacker was also shot dead in the clash.
The fallen personnel were identified as Muhammad Irfan, Muhammad Saleem, Muhammad Khalil, Nakheel, and Ghazanfar Abbas. Two of the martyred officers hailed from Rahim Yar Khan, while the other three were from Bahawalnagar district.
Taking immediate notice of the attack, Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar summoned a detailed report from the Regional Police Officer (RPO) Bahawalpur and directed the District Police Officer (DPO) of Rahim Yar Khan to launch a manhunt and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Paying tribute to the martyred officers, Dr. Anwar praised their bravery and dedication to duty, stating, “Their sacrifice is a symbol of courage and service, and it will never be forgotten.”
He further stated that the attack, carried out under the cover of night, was a cowardly act by criminal elements, but such actions will not weaken the morale of the police force.
Dr. Anwar reiterated that the crackdown on armed criminal gangs operating in the riverine Katcha areas will continue with full force, and vowed that those responsible for this heinous act will be held accountable.
