LAHORE: Eleven policemen were killed and seven others injured in a coordinated rocket attack by bandits on police vans in Rahim Yar Khan’s Machka area on Thursday, local media reports.
The assault took place in Punjab’s riverine region, known for its difficult terrain and high criminal activity. Two police vans, carrying more than 20 officers, were immobilized in rainwater when bandits targeted them with rockets. The ambush resulted in the death of 11 officers, with seven others injured and four still missing.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack and expressed profound sorrow for the loss of the police personnel. He honored the fallen officers and offered prayers for the wounded, assuring that the government would support the families of the slain officers and intensify efforts to eradicate the bandit groups.
Authorities have pledged to take strict measures against the attackers and enhance security to prevent future incidents. A camp had been established in Machka to monitor bandit movements, and the officers were ambushed by about 25 armed bandits while returning from duty.
A large police contingent from across the district, led by District Police Officer Imran, was dispatched to the scene. Despite ongoing operations to counter these criminal groups, the bandits in the riverine areas of Punjab and Sindh continue to be a major security threat.
