ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said Pakistan must stop the rising wave of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at all costs, as the province faces a series of deadly attacks targeting security personnel.
Shehbaz made the remarks during a meeting with Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Engineer Amir Muqam, during which the officials discussed matters relating to Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“The sacrifices of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the fight against terrorism are deeply valued,” the prime minister said, adding that the government wanted the province to achieve development and stability like other parts of the country.
The prime minister stressed the need to curb terrorism in KP while ensuring continued development and public welfare in the province.
Muqam briefed Shehbaz on ongoing affairs and developments in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Shehbaz directed the authorities to continue measures aimed at improving public welfare, development and the provision of basic facilities in the two regions. He said development and prosperity in AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan remained among the government’s priorities.
Fresh Wave of Attacks in KP
The prime minister’s remarks come as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed a series of attacks in recent weeks.
On Wednesday, four police personnel were wounded when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a police checkpoint in Kohat.
A day earlier, four customs officials were killed when terrorists opened fire near Qureshi Mor Abhaya Bridge in the Gomal University police station area of Dera Ismail Khan, according to local reports.
In a separate attack in Dera Ismail Khan, terrorists targeted a traffic police vehicle near Mufti Mahmood Chowk, killing constable-driver Muhammad Habib.
Deadly Attacks Across Southern KP
On Sept. 28, three traffic police personnel were killed and two passersby wounded when gunmen opened fire on a police vehicle in Wazirabad, Tank district.
A day earlier, three people were killed and three others wounded in a militant attack in Lakki Marwat district.
On Sept. 26, a suspected suicide bombing and subsequent gunfire at a checkpoint in Dera Ismail Khan killed 12 people and wounded 35 others.
Earlier, on Sept. 18, an attack at the old police lines in Kohat during Friday prayers killed 21 people and wounded more than 100, according to officials.
The continued attacks have intensified concerns over the security situation in KP, where security forces and police remain under pressure from militant groups.
Shehbaz’s latest remarks underscore the government’s stated resolve to contain militant violence while continuing development efforts across the province.
