Dera Ismail Khan/Lakki Marwat, January 12, 2026: At least six police officers were martyred on Monday when police vehicles were targeted in two separate IED attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Tank and Lakki Marwat districts.
According to a Tank police spokesperson, the armoured personnel carrier (APC) was hit by an IED while traveling from the Gomal police station toward Tank. Among the martyred was an Additional Station House Officer (SHO). The bodies were taken to Tank District Headquarters Hospital by Rescue 1122, and a massive security operation was launched in the area.
In a separate incident near Darra Tang Road in Lakki Marwat, another IED blast injured three police personnel, including a SHO. Police confirmed the injured were now out of danger. The attack targeted the APC while patrolling near Jabar Khel under the jurisdiction of the Saddar police station. Authorities identified the attackers as Fitna al Khwarij, a term used by the state for militants of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
DPO Lakki Marwat Nazir Khan visited the site and launched a search operation. He vowed that “these cowardly acts cannot lower our morale,” emphasizing that the police are ready to make every possible sacrifice to protect the public and are resolutely tackling the militants.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered an immediate investigation into the Tank attack, directing that those responsible be brought to justice swiftly. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism from the country.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep grief over the martyrdom, paying tribute to the officers’ bravery and dedication. He prayed for the martyrs’ elevated ranks and for patience for their families.
KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi sought an immediate report from police officials, offering condolences to the bereaved families and praising the bravery of the fallen officers. He denounced the attacks as Indian-backed acts of terrorism, adding that such actions would not dampen morale, and urged the provincial government to take practical steps for peace.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the attacks, hailing the sacrifices of the police personnel and stating that their courage ensures “a peaceful tomorrow” for the nation.
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq expressed sorrow over the loss of six officers, paying rich tribute to law enforcement’s role in the fight against terrorism. He prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and reaffirmed that the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with its security forces.
The attacks mark a severe escalation in militant activity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, highlighting ongoing security challenges despite intensified operations against banned terrorist groups.
