ALPURI: Three police personnel were martyred when suspected militants belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij opened fire on a police team during a search operation in the remote Shangla district on Monday, official sources said.
The sources said that the police had launched a large-scale search operation in various areas of Shangla, particularly on the outskirts of Puran, within the jurisdiction of Kabul Gram Police Station based on intelligence about the presence of militants.
The teams had cordoned off the area and started searching suspected hideouts when militants opened indiscriminate fire on the police party. As a result of the firing, police personnel identified as Havildar Maqbool Ahmed, along with constables Fida Hussain and Saeedur Rehman were martyred on the spot.
Police responded, triggering an exchange of fire in which multiple militants were reportedly killed, while some managed to escape by taking advantage of the mountainous terrain.
Sources said that the identification of the slain militants and information on their network were being collected. After the incident, security in the area was tightened and the search operation expanded, with additional personnel called in.
Reinforcements from Police Lines in Alpuri and other security forces personnel joined the operation to ensure complete clearance of the area.
Security forces set up checkpoints at entry and exit points of the area. Citizens were advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary movement. Police officials urged the public to immediately report any suspicious activity or individuals to the nearest police station to help maintain peace and order in the region.
Meanwhile, the funeral prayers for the martyred personnel were offered with full official honours at Police Lines Alpuri, attended by senior police and administrative officials as well as residents.
