GUJRANWALA: A police constable was killed, while two other officials sustained injuries in separate encounters with the same group resulting in the deaths of two of the suspected robbers.

According to the police, three armed suspects attacked police in a series of confrontations across Gujranwala and Sialkot on Wednesday. Police said that during routine checks near the Gujranwala sessions court, three individuals riding a motorcycle were signaled to stop. Police said the suspects opened fire on the officials and critically injured constable Babar before fleeing the scene. The suspects again attacked the police near Head Bambanwala in Sialkot. In the exchange of fire, constable Iftikhar Ahmed Sandhu was killed, and another officer sustained injuries. The suspects once again managed to escape on their motorcycle.

A coordinated pursuit was launched by police teams, who eventually intercepted the suspects near Rahwali in Gujranwala. In the ensuing shootout, two of the alleged assailants were killed, while the third suspect managed to escape.

Regional Police Officer (RPO) Tayyab Hafeez Cheema while confirming the details, said that a manhunt was currently underway to arrest the third suspect. He lauded the swift response of police teams and pledged that those responsible for the violence would be brought to justice.

Same group confronted police teams across Gujranwala and Sialkot

Heavy security was observed in place across key areas as police investigated to confirm the identities of the suspects and their affiliations.

Meanwhile, Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar paid tribute to the martyred Punjab Police head constable.

He said the sacrifice of the martyred officer would always be remembered as a symbol of bravery and dedication.

Published in Dawn, August 8th, 2025