On Thursday, in Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab, at least 11 policemen were killed and seven others were injured when bandits in the kacha area launched a rocket attack on their vans. The attack occurred in the Machka area, a riverine region, where two police vans carrying over 20 officers were trapped in rainwater during the assault. The attack led to the deaths of nearly a dozen officers, with seven injured and four missing.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the assault on the Punjab police, paying tribute to the fallen officers and expressing hopes for the recovery of the injured. He promised government support for the families of those killed.

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Bandit groups in riverine areas have long troubled law enforcement in Sindh and Punjab, despite various operations to combat them.

In April, a review committee of the National Action Plan, led by Interior Minister Naqvi, decided to launch a joint operation by Sindh and Punjab police against these notorious bandits.

This decision was made during a high-level meeting at the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta), which included senior officials from various federal and provincial agencies.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned attack on Police convoy in Rahim Yar Khan.

In a statement, he expressed deep sorrow and grief over the martyrdom of police personnel in the attack.

The Prime Minister prayed for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks and patience for their families.

He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured police personnel and directed that they should be provided with the best medical facilities. He instructed immediate and effective action against the attackers in the Kacha area.

The Prime Minister has also directed that those responsible for the attack be identified and brought to justice. He commended police officers and personnel for their dedication and courage in combating criminals regardless of personal risk.