A sense of urgency and tightened security measures swept through the police ranks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hamid conducted an emergency visit to Bannu following a recent militant attack targeting a police post with an explosive-laden vehicle.
The high-level visit, accompanied by Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah and the Additional IG CTD, focused on assessing ground realities, reviewing the initial investigation report, and reinforcing morale among frontline officers stationed in the region.
During his interaction with police personnel, Zulfiqar Hamid paid tribute to the sacrifices of law enforcement officers, describing them as the “first line of defence” against militancy. He reaffirmed that the sacrifices of martyrs would not go unanswered and emphasized accountability for those behind the attack.
Security officials briefed the IG on the incident, in which militants reportedly used a vehicle-borne explosive device to target a police installation, an attack authorities described as a desperate attempt to destabilize the region. The IG praised the swift response and resilience of Bannu police, noting their consistent role in counterterror operations.
In a strongly worded directive, the provincial police chief ordered a comprehensive security audit of all police infrastructure, including stations and checkpoints across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He stressed the need to upgrade facilities to bomb-proof standards and eliminate vulnerabilities.
The IG further directed enhanced intelligence coordination, particularly through strengthening human intelligence networks and reinforcing the Special Branch. Officials were instructed to expand surveillance mechanisms to pre-empt future threats and disrupt militant planning networks.
He also assured officers that the force would not face any shortage of manpower, technology, or modern weaponry, underscoring the government’s commitment to equipping law enforcement with advanced operational capabilities.
At a high-level review meeting held after the field visit, officials evaluated the incident in detail and discussed a revised counterterror strategy. The meeting concluded with a renewed focus on proactive intelligence gathering, infrastructure resilience, and rapid response readiness.
Authorities reiterated that Bannu police have consistently stood firm against militant threats, and the latest attack would further strengthen resolve rather than weaken operational commitment.
As investigations continue, the provincial police leadership has signaled a more aggressive and structured security framework aimed at preventing future attacks and restoring full stability across sensitive districts.
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