Islamabad
Pakistan's capital has been placed on high alert after a militant attack on a security checkpoint at the Punjab–Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) border. Authorities have sealed all entry and exit points to Islamabad’s Red Zone indefinitely, citing security concerns following the incident.
In the early hours of Saturday, around 15-20 heavily armed militants launched an assault on the Lakhani check post, using rocket launchers and heavy weapons. Security forces detected their approach through thermal imaging cameras and responded swiftly with machine guns and mortar fire. The attackers were forced to retreat.
“The attackers came in small groups from different directions, but our forces successfully repelled them,” said a Punjab Police official. Director General of Punjab Police, Usman Anwar, confirmed that the Lakhani post has been targeted multiple times, including twice this week. He added that security personnel have successfully defended the post in all 19 attempted assaults so far.
Following the attack, security alerts were issued across Punjab and Islamabad, with heightened surveillance in sensitive areas. The Red Zone, which houses key government institutions, including the Prime Minister’s Office, Parliament, Supreme Court, and diplomatic enclaves, has been completely sealed, with access restricted until further notice.
Authorities are on high alert amid concerns of further attacks. Additional security personnel have been deployed to safeguard the capital. Meanwhile, intelligence agencies are investigating the origins of the attack and assessing potential threats in the region.
The latest attack underscores growing security concerns in Pakistan, as militant activity has escalated in recent months. Officials have urged citizens to remain vigilant while security forces continue efforts to maintain stability.