Dera Ismail Khan, February 11, 2026: At least four policemen, including a station house officer (SHO), were martyred when armed militants attacked a police party in Paniala’s Wanda Budh area, officials confirmed.
According to a police statement, the incident occurred as the officers were returning from a search operation conducted under the jurisdiction of Shaheed Nawab Police Station, following intelligence reports of militants in the area. The locality had been cordoned off before the operation began.
Militants reportedly opened fire from nearby forests, prompting the police to retaliate. Four policemen lost their lives in the exchange of fire: SHO Faheem Mumtaz, Constable Irfan Khan, Constable Ghulam Subhani, and Constable Wajahat. Paharpur Circle Deputy Superintendent of Police Hafiz Adnan and Assistant Sub-Inspector Tariq sustained injuries and were shifted to the District Headquarters Teaching Hospital for treatment, along with the martyrs’ bodies.
Authorities said that as many militants were killed in the firefight, and a clearance and search operation was launched under the leadership of District Police Officer Sajad Ahmed Sahebzada to apprehend the remaining attackers. Security in nearby areas has been further tightened, and efforts are underway to recover the bodies of the slain militants.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi condemned the attack, paid tribute to the sacrifices of the martyred officers, and assured full support for their families. “The KP police are at the frontline in the fight against terrorism. Such cowardly acts cannot dampen their morale,” he said, adding that a comprehensive strategy was needed to eradicate terrorism.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, praised the bravery of the Dera Ismail Khan police, and directed that the injured officers receive all possible medical care.
Former KP Chief Minister and PTI leader Ali Amin Khan Gandapur also expressed grief, describing the officers as heroes who laid down their lives in defense of the country. He prayed for the swift recovery of the injured and extended condolences to the families of the martyred personnel, praying for the elevation of their ranks.
