A major terrorist attack on the Ratta Kulachi Police Training School in Dera Ismail Khan was thwarted on Saturday morning. Six heavily armed terrorists were killed by security forces in a five-hour-long gun battle. However, the attack claimed the lives of seven brave police officers. The terrorists had planned a mass casualty event but were stopped by the timely and courageous response of the police.
The attackers rammed an explosives-laden truck into the school’s main gate around dawn, causing a massive explosion. The blast tore through the front of the building, leaving smoke and debris in the air. Disguised in police and military uniforms, the terrorists stormed the compound with grenades, automatic rifles, and suicide vests. Despite the chaos, police officers quickly took positions and returned fire.
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Senior officers, including DPO Sahibzada Sajjad Ahmed and RPO Syed Ashfaq Anwar, arrived at the site and led the counter-operation. Officers and trainees, totaling around 200 people, were safely evacuated from the school during the intense exchange. Seven officers sustained injuries and were quickly transported to a nearby hospital. The Central Police Office later confirmed that weapons, explosives, and suicide vests were recovered from the bodies of the attackers.
Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, Zulfiqar Hameed, declared the area fully cleared after the joint operation. He praised the leadership and bravery of the officers involved and announced commendation medals and cash rewards. He also stated that the martyrs’ sacrifices would be honored and remembered, and promised continued action against militants.
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Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the attack, calling it a failed attempt to destabilize peace. He paid tribute to the fallen officers and offered deep condolences to their families. Praising the force, he said the KP Police had once again proven their courage and commitment. “Our police turned a tragedy into a victory. They crushed the terrorists’ evil plot and protected countless lives,” he said.