At least five policemen were martyred and two others injured when armed bandits launched a late-night assault on the Shekhani checkpost in Rahim Yar Khan. According to officials, heavily armed criminals targeted the post, leading to an intense exchange of fire. The martyred officers were identified as Muhammad Irfan, Muhammad Saleem, Muhammad Khalil, Nakheel, and Ghazanfar Abbas. Two were from Rahim Yar Khan, while the remaining three belonged to Bahawalnagar district.
During the confrontation, one dacoit was also killed. Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar took immediate notice of the incident, demanding a detailed report from the Regional Police Officer (RPO) of Bahawalpur. He also directed the District Police Officer (DPO) of Rahim Yar Khan to expedite efforts to arrest those responsible for the attack.
Paying tribute to the fallen officers, IGP Anwar praised their bravery, stating that their sacrifice would not be forgotten. “Bandits carried out a cowardly attack under the cover of darkness, but such acts will not weaken our resolve,” he said. He reaffirmed that the Punjab Police would continue its operations against criminal gangs in the riverine (Katcha) areas with full force.
The incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement in combating organized crime. Authorities have vowed to intensify security measures to prevent such attacks in the future. The martyred personnel have been hailed as heroes, with the police chief emphasizing that justice will be served swiftly.
