Police clash during Islamabad operation leaves officers injured

A police operation targeting Afghan residents in Islamabad turned violent, leaving four officers injured and leading to the arrest of 23 individuals who now face terrorism-related charges, authorities said.

The incident occurred in the Sarai Kharboza area during a search operation conducted by local police. According to a First Information Report (FIR) registered at Golra Police Station, residents resisted the operation, triggering a confrontation that quickly escalated.

The complaint, filed by Assistant Sub-Inspector Saqib Mehmood, alleges that a group led by a suspect identified as Mubeen abducted a police official and held him inside a house. The attackers reportedly set the building on fire during the incident, further intensifying the situation.

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Police officials said the group also snatched a submachine gun from an officer and opened fire with the intent to kill. The violence resulted in injuries to four police personnel, prompting reinforcement and a crackdown on those involved.

Authorities confirmed that 23 suspects have been taken into custody and are being investigated under multiple legal provisions, including Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act. A team from the Counter Terrorism Department has launched a broader operation to apprehend additional suspects who managed to escape.

Officials described the incident as a serious challenge to law enforcement, emphasising that strict action would be taken against those involved in the attack.

In a separate development, a police sub-inspector lost his life due to cardiac arrest while on duty in the capital. Sub-Inspector Mukhtar Ahmed was deployed at Serena Hotel Islamabad when he suddenly fell ill and passed away.

Police authorities expressed condolences over the loss and praised his service.