In a high intensity armed encounter in the Kot Kashmir area of Lakki Marwat, police and local peace committee members neutralised three Khawarij, including a notorious commander, while a valiant police constable embraced martyrdom during the rescue of civilians used as human shields.
According to official sources, a tip off was received regarding the movement of Khawarij elements from Gandi toward Kot Kashmir. Acting swiftly on the instructions of Regional Police Officer Bannu Sajjad Khan and District Police Officer Lakki Marwat Jawad Ishaq, a joint team of police and local peace committee volunteers moved to intercept the militants.
As the forces confronted them near Kot Kashmir, the Khawarij opened indiscriminate fire, sparking a fierce gunfight. One operative was killed in the initial exchange, while two others stormed into a nearby house, attempting to exploit women and children as human shields.
Displaying exceptional tactical skill and moral clarity, the police immediately surrounded the house. Over a two-hour standoff, law enforcement personnel successfully evacuated the civilians trapped inside and continued to engage the Khawarij, ultimately eliminating both without civilian casualties. A cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from the site.
During the exchange, Police Constable Shahidullah of Gandi Khan Khel sustained life-threatening injuries. Despite being rushed toward the District Headquarters Hospital, he succumbed to his wounds and was elevated to the status of shaheed (martyr) in the service of the nation.
One of the slain operatives was positively identified as Commander Chhota Waseem, a high-profile Khawarij figure wanted in several acts of terrorism. Efforts are underway to formally identify his two accomplices.
Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed, commended the bravery, discipline, and professionalism of the Lakki Marwat police. He also lauded the unwavering resolve of the local population for standing shoulder to shoulder with law enforcement in confronting the scourge of Khawarij.
Terming the operation a success of strategic and moral significance, the IGP announced cash rewards and commendation certificates for the officers and peace committee members involved.
“This courageous operation is a testament to the unshakable commitment of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police and its people to rid our land of Khawarij and safeguard every innocent life,” the IGP stated.
