Eleven police personnel were martyred and 12 injured when gunmen attacked a police team heading to conduct an operation against illegal gold mining in Kohat’s Gambat area.
KOHAT: At least 11 police personnel, including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP), were martyred and 12 others injured when armed attackers opened fire on a police party heading to conduct an operation against illegal gold mining in Kohat district on Wednesday.
The attack took place in the Darbukach Jalandhar Banda area, located between Kohat and Karak, within the jurisdiction of Gumbat police station, according to police officials.
The police team was reportedly on its way to take action against illegal gold mining activities when it came under heavy gunfire. The attackers reportedly targeted police personnel from nearby mountainous positions.
According to the Kohat Police public relations officer (PRO), those martyred included DSP Gumbat Haider Zaman and Sub-Inspector Mukhtiar. The death toll subsequently reached 11, while 12 injured personnel were shifted to hospital for medical treatment.
Rescue 1122 spokesperson Jawad Afridi confirmed that 12 injured police personnel had been transported to hospital. Initial reports from personnel at the scene also indicated multiple fatalities, although rescue officials said the exact number would be verified after reaching the location.
Following the attack, additional police vehicles and heavy contingents of law enforcement personnel were dispatched to the area. An exchange of fire between the attackers and police was also reported, while security personnel continued efforts to respond to the situation.
According to initial reports, several police vehicles were set on fire during the assault. The reported burning of five police mobile vehicles was also mentioned by the Kohat police spokesperson.
Meanwhile, an emergency was declared at the District Headquarters (DHQ) Teaching Hospital in Kohat to ensure immediate medical assistance to the injured personnel.
The attack occurred during a police operation targeting illegal gold mining in the region. The incident has raised serious security concerns, particularly regarding the risks faced by law enforcement personnel during operations against illegal mining activities.
The situation remained tense as additional security personnel were deployed and efforts to respond to the attack continued.
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