Three police personnel were martyred on Wednesday when an improvised explosive device (IED) struck a police patrol van in the Paniala tehsil of Dera Ismail Khan. According to police sources, the blast occurred near Panyala College while the vehicle was on routine patrol.

The martyred officials were identified as ASI Gul Alam, Constable Rafiq, and the driver, Sakhi Jan. Following the explosion, a heavy contingent of police reached the site, cordoned off the area, and began collecting forensic evidence.

Police officials said an investigation into the incident is underway, while a search operation has been launched in the surrounding areas to track down those responsible.

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Condemning the attack, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi described it as a cowardly act of terrorism. He expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of the three officers and paid tribute to their sacrifice. The governor also extended condolences to the bereaved families and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.

Governor Kundi stated that terrorist elements are enemies of peace and humanity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, adding that the sacrifices of police personnel will never be forgotten.