Terrorism cannot be defeated through political blame

November 13, 2026

The martyrdom of at least 10 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police personnel, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), in a militant attack near Kohat is another painful reminder of the province’s worsening security situation. The attack also exposes the serious risks faced by police officers who continue to fight terrorism and organised crime despite limited resources and growing threats.

According to the KP Police, police and local administration conducted an operation on Wednesday against illegal gold mining in the Darabo Kuch area near Kohat. The operation aimed to stop unlawful extraction of gold from the Indus River and take action against those involved. Although the operation was completed successfully, militants attacked the police party while it was returning from the area.

The police personnel fought back, killing 18 militants, according to the police statement. However, 10 officers, including a DSP, lost their lives in the exchange of fire. Their sacrifice deserves the highest respect. These officers were performing their duty to protect the law and challenge criminal networks. Their families and colleagues deserve the nation’s full support.

The police have also alleged that criminal networks involved in illegal mining were working with militant groups and receiving foreign support. These claims require a thorough investigation, but they highlight an important reality: terrorism cannot be treated separately from organised crime. Illegal businesses, financial networks and local facilitators can provide militants with money, information and other support.

The government must investigate these links and bring everyone involved to justice. It must also ensure better protection, equipment and intelligence support for police personnel operating in high-risk areas.

At the same time, the tragedy raises serious questions about the government’s security policy. Political arguments, administrative changes and the debate over imposing governor’s rule cannot defeat terrorism. Changing the provincial government or transferring political authority to the governor does not automatically dismantle militant networks or improve security on the ground.

Governor’s rule is an administrative and constitutional arrangement, not a counterterrorism strategy. Terrorism requires a clear policy, effective intelligence, coordinated security operations, stronger policing and action against the financial networks supporting militants. The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have suffered enough. The sacrifices of these police personnel must not go in vain.