Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police (IGP) Zulfiqar Hameed has stated that multiple Khawarij were neutralized during an Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) conducted by the Police, Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and Elite Force in Lower Dir.
Addressing the media during his visit to Dir, the IGP said that security personnel carried out an effective operation against Khawarij elements in the Haidery Kando Top area of Lower Dir, based on actionable intelligence.
IGP Zulfiqar Hameed stated that the police force responded with courage and determination when Khawarij attempted an attack, inflicting significant losses on the hostile elements during the exchange.
He further confirmed that three police personnel embraced martyrdom during the intense engagement last night, while several others sustained injuries. Senior police officials immediately reached the scene following the incident and supervised the ongoing security response.
The provincial police chief paid tribute to the sacrifices of law enforcement personnel, emphasizing that such losses have not weakened the resolve, morale, or commitment of the police force in the fight against terrorism.
“The state is confronting this challenge with full determination,” the IGP stated, adding that a comprehensive strategy is being implemented to establish lasting peace across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He highlighted that following decisions taken during the Apex Committee meeting held in Peshawar on February 10, 2026, a model for strengthening provincial law enforcement oversight in the Malakand Division was initiated under the supervision of provincial police and relevant institutions. He said the successful implementation of this model would subsequently be expanded to other affected districts, including Khyber, Orakzai, and Kurram.
IGP Zulfiqar Hameed said that efforts are underway to enhance the operational capabilities of the police force through modern equipment, advanced training, and improved resources. He added that more than 70 million rupees are being allocated during the current year for providing modern equipment to police personnel.
He stated that significant funds have also been allocated in the current budget to strengthen police capacity, improve operational readiness, and enhance the ability of law enforcement agencies to respond effectively to security challenges.
The IGP further said that security institutions are continuing their efforts to counter hostile narratives, while acknowledging the sacrifices being made by security personnel for the restoration and preservation of peace.
Addressing concerns regarding extortion calls originating from abroad, he said that coordination with the Foreign Office and other relevant institutions is ongoing to trace and address such activities.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order, IGP Zulfiqar Hameed said that the state’s writ remains firmly established across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the morale of the police force remains high, and hostile elements will not be allowed to regain ground.
He concluded that law enforcement agencies remain fully committed to eliminating security threats and ensuring a peaceful and stable environment for the people of the province.
