GILGIT: Authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan reported on Sunday that they successfully thwarted a terrorist attack aimed at a police checkpost located between the Diamer and Ghizer districts.
The incident occurred on Saturday, as detailed by a spokesperson from the GB police during a statement made on Sunday. A group of approximately nine assailants opened fire on police officers stationed at the Sargah Nallah seasonal checkpoint, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Singal police station, positioned near the boundaries of Ghizer and Diamer.
In response to the gunfire, police personnel mounted a swift and effective counter-offensive. Despite their efforts, the attackers managed to escape, leveraging the challenging mountainous landscape to their advantage.
Police Response and Future Measures
Fortunately, all police officers involved in the incident emerged unscathed, as confirmed by the spokesperson. In light of the ongoing security challenges, the police are implementing measures to relocate the checkpost personnel to a more secure location, as well as enhancing their support with additional officers, equipment, and logistical resources.
The situation is currently under close observation at the district level to ensure continued safety and security.
Condemnation and Call for Vigilance
The GB police condemned the attack, labeling it a cowardly act of terrorism, and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining law and order, safeguarding public lives and property, and combatting terrorist threats. The police are on high alert and ready to respond to any further incidents.
In addition, the spokesperson encouraged the community to actively report any suspicious behavior or individuals to the authorities and to work closely with law enforcement agencies.
Recent Security Operations
This attempted attack follows a previous incident in April, when GB police apprehended 15 suspects during an operation targeting those responsible for attacks on police personnel. This operation came in the wake of an ambush that resulted in the loss of three police lives and injuries to five others near Thore Valley in Chilas.
Additionally, in April, the caretaker government of Gilgit-Baltistan took significant steps to strengthen law enforcement by renaming the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) to the Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) and approving the recruitment of 600 new officers to enhance security measures in the region.
