DERA GHAZI KHAN: Punjab police, along with the Counter-Terrorism Department and Rangers, thwarted two attacks by militants in the border areas of Dera Ghazi Khan on Monday.

Militants were forced to retreat and flee into the mountains after intense exchange of fire with law enforcement agencies.

The operation was launched after intelligence reports about the presence of militants in the border area of Murha.

The police said the militants, armed with heavy weapons, attacked police teams but were met with a strong and timely response.

In a separate incident, another militant group launched a surprise attack on the Lakhani border check post in the vicinity of Wahowa police station.

Approximately 15 to 20 militants attacked the checkpoint from all sides, using rocket launchers, hand grenades and other heavy weapons. However, the police, equipped with thermal imaging cameras, identified the attackers and responded with machine guns and mortar fire. The attackers were forced to retreat, and reports suggest they suffered heavy casualties.

Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar said this was the 18th attack by militants that the Punjab police had foiled.

Earlier this year, on Jan 31, a similar attack on the Jhangi police check post in the vicinity of Wahowa police station was also thwarted.

Published in Dawn, March 4th, 2025