By Our Correspondent
LANDI KOTAL, Khyber District: A police constable and his 10-year-old son were shot dead by unidentified gunmen in the Sultan Khel area of Landi Kotal on Tuesday night, officials and local residents said.
According to sources, the incident occurred when they were returning home after offering Isha and Taraweeh prayers at a nearby mosque. Armed assailants opened fire on them outside their hujra (guest house), killing the constable on the spot and critically injuring his son, who later succumbed to his injuries. The victims were identified as Constable Safeer Khan and his young son.
The attack has spread fear and anxiety among residents of the area, who have urged authorities to ensure foolproof security at mosques and other public places in Landi Kotal, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
Following the tragic incident, funeral prayers for Constable Safeer Khan and his son were offered with full official honours at Police Lines Khyber Shah Kas.
The funeral was attended by District Police Officer (DPO) Khyber Waqar Ahmed, SP Bara Circle, DSP Headquarters, circle officers, officials of the Pakistan Army, family members of the deceased, and a large number of police personnel.
A smartly turned-out police contingent presented a guard of honour to the fallen constable and his son. Senior officers laid floral wreaths on the coffins and offered special prayers for the departed souls.
Speaking on the occasion, DPO Waqar Ahmed expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. He described Constable Safeer Khan as a brave, honest, and dedicated officer who had rendered valuable services to the department.
“The martyrdom of his innocent young son is an extremely tragic loss not only for the family but for the entire Khyber district,” he said, adding that the sacrifices of the martyrs would always be remembered and that the police department would continue to extend full support to the bereaved family.
Police have launched an investigation into the attack, while efforts are underway to trace and apprehend the assailants.
