RAHIM YAR KHAN – In a tragic police checkpost attack late Thursday night, five brave officers lost their lives in Punjab’s Rahim Yar Khan district. Two others sustained injuries during the violent assault.
The attackers, armed with heavy weapons, stormed the Shekhani checkpost. According to a police official, the criminals launched a sudden and calculated ambush, directly targeting Elite Force personnel stationed at the site.
During the fierce exchange of gunfire, one of the assailants was also killed. However, the damage had already been done.
The martyred officers were identified as Muhammad Irfan, Muhammad Saleem, Muhammad Khalil, Nakheel, and Ghazanfar Abbas. Among them, two hailed from Rahim Yar Khan, while the remaining three belonged to the Bahawalnagar district.
Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar took swift notice of the brutal raid. He directed the Regional Police Officer (RPO) of Bahawalpur to submit a full report. Additionally, he instructed the District Police Officer (DPO) of Rahim Yar Khan to arrest all those involved in the deadly strike on the Elite Force personnel.
Dr. Anwar paid heartfelt tribute to the fallen officers. He described their martyrdom as a symbol of duty, bravery, and commitment. “The sacrifice of our heroes will never be forgotten,” he said.
Calling the police checkpost attack a cowardly move, the IGP emphasized that it was carried out in the dark of night by criminal elements who feared direct confrontation. “Such armed attacks will never break the spirit of our police force,” he declared.
He also reaffirmed that the ongoing police operation in the Katcha region would continue with full determination. “Those behind this ruthless ambush will face justice,” Dr. Anwar vowed.
The community and law enforcement agencies continue to mourn the tragic loss while rallying around the families of the fallen. The province remains on high alert as efforts intensify to eliminate criminal networks hiding in riverine areas.
