PESHAWAR: At least 10 police personnel, including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP) and a sub-inspector, were martyred in a terrorist attack on a police team in Kohat's Gambat area on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, according to police officials.
The attack took place when the police team was travelling to conduct an operation against illegal gold mining in the area. Kohat police spokesperson Muhammad Nauman Zeb confirmed the casualties, identifying DSP Gambat Haider Zaman and Sub-Inspector Mukhtiar among those killed.
According to initial reports, the police personnel came under heavy gunfire in the Darbokach Jalandhar Banda area, situated between Kohat and Karak districts. The attackers reportedly opened fire from nearby hilltops, triggering an intense exchange of fire with police personnel.
The assailants also set five police mobile vehicles on fire during the assault, causing further damage and disrupting the police operation.
Following the attack, additional police vehicles and a heavy contingent of security personnel were dispatched to the scene to respond to the situation and reinforce the affected team.
Security was placed on high alert across the area as authorities moved to strengthen their presence and respond to the attack. Police reinforcements were also sent to the location amid concerns about the security situation.
The Kohat police spokesperson said an emergency had been declared at the District Headquarters Teaching Hospital to facilitate the treatment of injured personnel and manage the casualties.
The attack represents a major loss for Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa police, particularly as senior officers were among those targeted.
Authorities have yet to release further details about the identities of all the victims or provide information about the attackers. Further developments are awaited as security personnel continue their response in the affected area.
The incident highlights ongoing security challenges facing law enforcement agencies in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, where police personnel continue to carry out operations amid persistent security threats.
