CM KP Seeks Report on Deadly Hangu Blasts

News Desk 

Peshawar/Islamabad: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Sohail Afridi on Friday sought an immediate report from the Inspector General of Police following the twin blasts in Hangu district that claimed the lives of three police officers, including Superintendent of Police (Operations) Asad Zubair.

A statement issued from the Chief Minister’s Office said Afridi had strongly condemned the incident, terming it “highly unfortunate.” He called a meeting of the provincial apex committee to review the law and order situation across the province.

The Chief Minister said those involved in the attack would be brought to justice at all costs, adding that such cowardly acts could not demoralize the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police. 

He vowed that the sacrifices of the martyred officers, including SP Asad Zubair, would not go in vain and reiterated the government’s resolve to utilize all available resources to maintain peace. Afridi also offered prayers for the departed souls and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

According to police sources, the first explosion occurred at the vacant Ghalmina checkpost in the jurisdiction of Baliamina Police Station, damaging the post’s structure and nearby rooms. District Police Officer Khan Zaib Muhammad said terrorists had planted explosive material near the deserted checkpost, which detonated with force.

Following the blast, SP (Operations) Asad Zubair and his team arrived at the site to assess the situation when a second explosion occurred, directly targeting their vehicle. As a result, SP Asad Zubair and two constables were martyred on the spot, while another officer sustained injuries.

DSP Amjad Hussain said the attackers detonated the second device after the police team reached the scene, indicating a coordinated attack aimed at law enforcement personnel.

Police and security forces immediately cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to track down the perpetrators. Additional contingents were deployed across the district to maintain law and order and prevent further incidents.

Meanwhile, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also strongly condemned the attack targeting the police vehicle. Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives, he paid glowing tribute to SP Asad Zubair and the martyred officers, lauding their bravery and dedication to duty.

“SP Asad Zubair and his fellow officers have achieved the highest honour of martyrdom,” Naqvi said, assuring the families of the victims that the entire nation stands with them in their grief. He affirmed that the sacrifices of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police personnel would always be remembered with pride.

The interior minister reiterated the government’s firm commitment to continue the fight against terrorism with full resolve and ensure that the perpetrators of such heinous acts are brought to justice.