11 police officers were tragically killed, and several others sustained serious injuries in a rocket attack by armed outlaws in Punjab’s Rahim Yar Khan district, about 400 kilometers from Lahore. This attack marks a significant escalation in violence in the region, highlighting ongoing security challenges in Pakistan’s kacha areas.
The attack took place at Machah Point, where two police mobile vans became stuck on a muddy roadway. As the officers attempted to free their vehicles, they were ambushed by a group of heavily armed outlaws who launched rockets at the immobilized police vehicles. The brutal assault resulted in the immediate deaths of 11 policemen, while others were taken hostage, and several were left critically injured.
A spokesperson for the Punjab police confirmed the casualties, stating, “At least 11 officers were killed on the spot, with some taken hostage and others severely injured.” The spokesperson further added that the death toll could potentially rise due to the critical condition of some of the injured officers. The outlaws responsible for the attack managed to escape before additional police forces could arrive at the scene.
In response to the incident, a large contingent of police was dispatched to the area, and the injured officers were quickly transported to Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Rahim Yar Khan for urgent medical attention.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz strongly condemned the attack and took immediate action, ordering Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar to proceed to the location and lead a comprehensive operation to rescue the hostages and apprehend the attackers. She emphasized that the presence of outlaws and their activities in the kacha areas of districts like Rahim Yar Khan would not be tolerated, and strict measures would be taken to restore law and order.
This tragic incident has once again underscored the serious security challenges faced by law enforcement in Pakistan’s rural and remote areas. The government has vowed to take decisive action against the perpetrators and ensure the safety and security of its citizens.