A deadly attack targeted the police training school in Ratta Kulachi, Dera Ismail Khan, but was heroically repelled by the quick response of security forces, leading to the fatalities of six terrorist assailants. Tragically, during the fierce gun battle, seven courageous police personnel laid down their lives in martyrdom.
According to the Central Police Office, the attackers, referred to as Khawarij (militant extremists), launched their assault by ramming a truck loaded with explosives into the school’s main gate, unleashing a colossal explosion. In the aftermath, these terrorists, cunningly disguised in various uniforms, invaded the training facility brandishing heavy weaponry.
Officials highlighted the immense bravery displayed by the police officers as they engaged in an intense exchange of gunfire with the assailants. Throughout the clash, the attackers persistently threw grenades. Both DPO Sahibzada Sajjad Ahmed and RPO Syed Ashfaq Anwar were on-site, guiding the defensive efforts.
The Central Police Office stated that a joint operation between the police and security forces spanned more than five hours, culminating in the elimination of all six terrorists. From their possession, authorities recovered suicide vests, explosives, weapons, and a substantial cache of ammunition.
Seven injured police personnel were transported to the hospital, while all trainee recruits and staff, approximately 200 individuals were safely evacuated from the facility.
Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, Zulfiqar Hameed, confirmed the area had been cleared and that a search and clean-up operation is ongoing. He praised the leadership of the RPO and DPO and announced rewards for all officers and personnel who took part in the successful operation.
The IGP also prayed for the elevation of the ranks of the martyrs and reaffirmed that their sacrifices will not go in vain.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the terrorist attack and paid rich tribute to the 7 police officers who embraced martyrdom. He expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured.
Minister Naqvi said the police personnel sacrificed their lives to foil a major terrorist plot. “They bravely stood their ground and crushed the malicious designs of the Khawarij terrorists,” he said.
He further added that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police has rendered unmatched sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.