In a tragic and brutal attack near Karak, militants targeted ambulances transporting injured Federal Constabulary (FC) personnel, resulting in the martyrdom of three officers. The incident unfolded close to Ghole Banda Dam on February 23, 2026, when two Rescue 1122 ambulances, dispatched to evacuate wounded FC members, came under a violent assault on their return journey. This attack has sent shockwaves through the region, highlighting the persistent threat posed by militant groups in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
The militants initially launched a quadcopter attack on an FC post located in the Qila Shahidan area of Karak. Following this assault, the injured personnel were rushed to medical facilities by the Rescue 1122 ambulances. However, the situation took a devastating turn when the vehicles were ambushed on their way back. One ambulance was set ablaze with the injured FC personnel still inside, while the second ambulance managed to escape the attack and safely evacuate its passengers. The fire caused severe burn injuries to the ambulance driver and a Rescue 1122 official, underscoring the ferocity of the assault.
The three FC personnel who lost their lives in the fire have been identified as Sepoy Murad Gul, Sepoy Ayan Khan, and Lance Naik Adil Khan. All were residents of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with Murad Gul and Ayan Khan hailing from Hangu district, and Adil Khan from Mansehra district. Their sacrifice has deeply saddened their communities and the entire province, where security forces continue to face relentless challenges from militant factions.
In addition to the fatalities, several others sustained injuries during the attack. Havaldar Sabir, Muhammad Yousaf, Hanif, and the ambulance driver Ahmad Hussain were among those hurt and have been admitted to hospitals in Bannu and Karak for urgent medical care. The incident has once again exposed the dangers faced by first responders and security personnel operating in volatile areas, where militants do not hesitate to target even medical evacuation efforts.
Authorities have strongly condemned this heinous act, describing it as a grave violation of humanitarian norms and a deliberate attempt to spread fear among the public. The militants reportedly recorded the attack and circulated the footage on social media platforms, aiming to intimidate both security forces and civilians. This tactic reflects the ongoing psychological warfare employed by extremist groups to destabilize the region and undermine public confidence.
In response, security agencies have reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying operations against militant elements responsible for such violent acts. The incident has galvanized efforts to enhance the protection of emergency services and improve the security framework in conflict-prone areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. As investigations continue, the government and law enforcement officials remain resolute in their mission to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace to the affected communities.
